A north-east MSP has backed more than 1,500 residents who have signed a petition calling for the preservation of the historic Deeside Way.
Ross Thomson has appealed to Transport Scotland to take heed of the concerns raised by local people who want to see the iconic route retained in its original form.
The petition was launched after it emerged the pathway would be permanently re-routed at Milltimber as part of the Aberdeen bypass works.
It will be discussed by Aberdeen City Council’s petitions committee today.
Campaigners want to see a non-vehicular bridge created over the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, currently under construction.
Mr Thomson, Scottish Conservative MSP for the north-east region, said: “This petition has now been signed by more than 1,500 people. It is clear that this goes way beyond local residents in the Milltimber area.
“The Deeside Way is a historic and well-loved walkway used daily by pedestrians, cyclists and dog-walkers alike from across the city.
“I would urge Transport Scotland to listen to the concerns over road safety and the need to preserve the original route.”
Lead petitioner, John Bevan, added: “Many people have demonstrated their passion for the Deeside Way by signing the petition.
“It’s important to recognise that this is not a protest against the AWPR; indeed, many of the signatories are looking forward to the road opening.
“But petitioners do feel strongly that the Deeside Way should remain safe to use, with its original route fully protected, after the AWPR is completed.”
A spokesperson for the Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society, said: “We are supportive of a new non-vehicular bridge being constructed on the old alignment of the right of way.
“This would not only address the safety concerns, but would maintain the historic line of the Deeside Way, an important, well-used recreational and commuting link, promoted by our Heritage Paths Project.”
