Updated plans to restore a “vital” north-east bridge have been backed by councillors.
Members of the Buchan area committee also asked local authority officers to continue engaging with locals throughout the restoration of Ladies Bridge at Cruden Bay.
The 92-year-old wooden crossing, which has been closed several times in recent years, is the only direct link between the village and its prized sands.
Last year, the area committee approved a £340,000 package of repairs, which was expected to extend the life of the structure by more than 50 years.
There were plans to erect a temporary bridge while the work was carried out. However, a cheaper option has now been proposed, at a cost of about £220,000, which does not include an interim crossing.
The repair work, due to last for 14-weeks, is expected to begin in mid-May next year. That could mean the crossing is out of action for the entire school summer holiday period.
While councillors were in support of the new plan, they urged officers to continue dialogue with those who would be affected.
Peterhead South and Cruden member Stephen Smith said: “I welcome the commitments given by the officers about keeping communications open.
“Engagement with the local community and businesses will be key here.
“I also hope that where possible timescales are shortened as this is something the locals will be looking for – disruption must be kept to an absolute minimum.”
Central Buchan councillor Jim Ingram asked if the owners of the bridge would be forced to stump up the cost.
Roads officer David Naismith said that, as the council had decided to do the repairs, it would pay for the work.
The 170ft bridge was built in 1922 after a fundraising campaign by local women, hence the name Ladies Bridge.
It was shut in 2003 for six months and again in 2010 after it was battered by strong winds.
Regarding the predicted timing of the work, a council spokesman said: “This period is optimum in terms of good weather, daylight hours and outwith the period of highest tides.”
He added that an alternative starting date at the end of April was being considered, although this could still encroach on the summer break.