Work will start next month on a £220,000 replacement for a rickety beach bridge.
The 93-year-old crossing between Cruden Bay and the Buchan village’s award-winning sands is frequently closed because it is in such a poor state.
There were even fears the Ladies Bridge it could collapse while someone was on it – with potentially fatal consequences.
Locals believe its dilapidated condition has contributed to falling visitor numbers.
But now a new crossing will be built by Huddersfield-based CTS Bridges Ltd and it is hoped it will breathe fresh life into the tourism business in time for summer.
Last night, the chairman of the village’s community association, Hugh McIntyre, said the project could benefit local firms.
He said: “It certainly removes a great deal of uncertainty over the community.
“Structural damage causes a lack of access and that significantly impacts local businesses and visitors in the summer period.
“This should certainly resolve a long-standing issue for the foreseeable future.”
Work to construct the new bridge – using the existing one’s stone piers – will start on March 9 and is expected to be completed by June.
A drop-in session to discuss plans for the new bridge will be held on Friday at Cruden Bay’s Serald Street hall from 3pm-7pm.
The community association and officers from Aberdeenshire Council will attend.
Concerns were first raised about the safety of bridge in 2002.