Large trees stretching across one of the north-east’s most notorious roads are potentially creating even further risks for drivers, a councillor fears.
Banff councillor John Cox fears a number of old trees along the A947 Aberdeen to Banff road are growing into potential dangers for motorists.
In at least two areas along the route, just south of Turriff and just south of Fyvie, Mr Cox said the branches are so long they cross to the other side of the carriageway.
He has now called for Aberdeenshire Council to assess the issue, and see if the trees require cutting back.
Mr Cox said: “When driving along the A947, you can definitely see a number of very large trees leaning very far across the road.
“So in light of the A947 route improvement strategy, which is all about improving safety and reducing frustration to ensure we have a safe route between Banff and Aberdeen, we really must consider all aspects of safety on this road, which obviously would include any potential risk from trees or branches falling onto the carriageway.
“All it takes is for one big branch to come down on the A947 and there could be a serious accident.
“In conditions like heavy rain, or when it’s very late at night, there can be reduced visibility and we need to make sure there are no potential risks.”
An improvement strategy for the A947 Aberdeen to Banff road has outlined 20 ways the 41-mile route could be made safer.
These include introducing overtaking lanes, increasing police speed limit enforcement and building bypass roads around some communities in the area.
Mr Cox added: “There have been a significant number of fatalities on the road, and it is a very, very busy commuter route between many communities and Aberdeen.
“Compared with many other main roads, there are a great number of settlements and junctions, as well as many bends and not a lot of places where you can overtake safely.
“If there is indeed a problem, we need to address it and reduce any risk.”
A spokeswoman for Aberdeenshire Council said: “As part of our road safety inspections, we record any concerns or issues around third-party trees adjacent to the carriageway, and advise the owners accordingly.
“The team are not aware of any particular issue along the sections mentioned, but will arrange to discuss this with the relevant councillor.”
Mr Cox said he looks forward to discussing the issue with the local authority.
