Traders along a Speyside high street which has been plagued by roadworks for much of the past year will receive a reprieve from the disruption over the summer months.
Work on resurfacing a rundown stretch of the A95 through Aberlour began last May, but the programme was hit by delays and the discovery of an unrecorded water main running almost the length of the street added months to the project.
Shopkeepers say the scheme has ravaged their takings, and are mounting efforts to claim compensation from Scottish Water for prolonging their agony by allegedly failing to notify road authorities about the presence of the outdated pipe.
However, they have welcomed news that the High Street will be clear of any work for the bulk of the busy tourist season this year.
Now that the water main has been replaced, Bear Scotland will complete one final section of resurfacing this month before stalling the final stages of the work until September.
A Bear spokeswoman said: “A consultation meeting was held with representatives from the community and business associations in Aberlour recently, to discuss the options in completing the surfacing works.
“The plan agreed by all parties is to complete a section of the final surfacing works later this month, with the remainder of the works completed after the summer to avoid disruption to businesses during the peak tourism period.”
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead has worked closely with residents and business owners in the village over the duration of the ordeal, and is spearheading their quest for compensation payment.
He said: “I have spoken to many local shops over the last few weeks, and there is no doubt that the roadworks have taken their toll financially over the last year or so.
“I am in the middle of setting up a meeting with the chief executive of Scottish Water to discuss what help might be available for businesses.
“I have spoken to representatives of the business community and have agreed to meet to work out options for any compensation, even at this late stage.
“At least the summer season is being kept clear, the road will be open for business and hopefully that will deliver benefits for small businesses.”
