Transport chiefs have been urged to take action to prevent a “catastrophic accident” on the new Aberdeen bypass.
Richard Thomson, SNP councillor for Ellon and District, has called on roads bosses to install a safety barrier on the newly-dualled Balmedie-Tipperty stretch of the A90 Aberdeen to Fraserburgh route.
Mr Thomson claims a number of people have highlighted the risk of a car veering off the northbound lane of the new section onto the old road at Foveran, which is only separated by a wire fence and steep embankment.
If a vehicle was to crash and land on the adjacent road, which is now a link to the village and the B9000 Pitmedden to Newburgh route, it would land in the path of oncoming traffic.
Mr Thomson has even made a video highlighting the danger, which has been shared with bypass bosses and the public via YouTube.
He said: “Even if both vehicles were travelling at their respective speed limits of 70mph and 40mph, that could give a ‘closing’ speed of 110mph or more.
“The consequences of a collision like that would be devastating for everyone concerned.
“All it would take to mitigate the risk is a few extra yards of crash barrier on the northbound carriageway of the new road. I very much hope that this is what will be done without further delay.
“We need to act now to prevent a catastrophic accident in the future – I hope that by highlighting this with the AWPR construction team and by making this video, some minds can be concentrated and we can get this matter resolved quickly.”
Transport Scotland confirmed an independent safety audit would be undertaken before the road was opened as standard procedure.
A spokesman said: ”All of the appropriate design standards and guidance have been followed in developing the project and additional barriers are not considered necessary.
“As with all trunk roads, prior to opening the road to traffic, a fully independent road safety audit will be undertaken and any necessary recommendations will be implemented.”
