A leading campaigner embroiled in bitter rows over the upgrading of Moray’s busiest road has stepped down – fearing the arguments could become as divisive as the independence referendum.
Tom Hardie, who was chairman of the Forres Area A96 Dualling Action Group (Faadag), believes the project could shatter the town’s tight-knit community spirit.
Last night the Rafford resident, who remains a member of the group, revealed the upgrade of the Aberdeen to Inverness route had already set locals against each other.
He said: “It’s a shame that this issue will inevitably divide Forres’s usual community spirit as people seek to minimise the adverse effects upon their own interests.
“You sort of wonder whether it could get to the scale of the independence referendum, which is probably still to settle down entirely.
“There are certainly people not talking to each other anymore about the dualling project.”
Mr Hardie explained that a “very vocal” group of protestors against a proposed Forres bypass to the north of the town had made their voices heard.
However, the former chairman believes balance is needed from locals living near to possible southern routes to ensure Transport Scotland is properly informed.
The Rafford resident stepped down at the most recent Faadag meeting after route options near his home were ruled out.
He added: “It simply doesn’t affect me anymore.”
Transport Scotland is currently running a consultation on a possible 34 different routes for the A96 between Hardmuir, near Nairn, and Fochabers.
The agency’s preferred option, which will cost about £50million, is expected to be published late next year.
More than 1,800 people attended exhibitions across Moray once the possible choices were unveiled.
Since then concerns have been raised about the effect the upgraded road will have on flood plains near the River Findhorn.
A consultation about the project closes tomorrow .
However, Transport Scotland has already said they will accept responses beyond that date.
A spokeswoman said: “The vital feedback we receive will help inform the further design and assessment work. All aspects of each route option will be considered as part of the on-going assessment, which will allow us to identify a preferred route option next year.”
