Residents of a road connecting Aberdeen city and shire have been left frustrated at increasing traffic turning it into a “rat run”.
The Brodiach road between Westhill and Kingswells connects to the busy commuter route, the A944 Aberdeen to Alford road.
The route has seen an influx in motorists trying to beat traffic around Westhill in recent months.
Roadworks began on the roundabout linking the A944 and the B9119 Westhill to Tarland road, by Arnhall Business Park, in late 2013.
And yesterday Brodiach road locals spoke of the anger they felt at unruly driving caused by people using the route as a detour.
Jonathan and Muriel Harvey, both 78, have lived on the road for 56 years.
Mr Harvey said: “It’s a pain, some folk come down here at about 70mph. I was trying to get the police to set up a trap because people come down here flat out. This used to be a fine quiet, country road.”
Speaking from their home, Lyndale, the couple believe a 30mph speed limit for the full extent of the road could make it safer if it continues to be used to bypass traffic at Westhill.
He said: “We’re trying to apply a 30mph speed limit. It’s not just motorbikes you get, it’s all these guys in fancy cars. You should see it first thing in the morning, cars come flying up here.”
Mrs Harvey said: “Speak to anybody on this road and they’ll tell you the exact same thing.
“There’s a lot of dog walkers come walking down this road too and the car boys have no respect.”
Carolyn Irvine, who also lives on the Brodiach road, said: “Traffic seems to be worst in the morning between 6.30-8.30am and 4.30-6.30pm.
“It’s a lot worse since the roadworks on the main road. We have been here 29 years. I practically never use my front door because of it.”
Retired marine engineer, Phil Holdsworth, who lives by the Brodiach Bridge, successfully campaigned for a 30mph speed limit for part of the road in 2012.
He said: “My primary concerns are: one, safety because there are children under the age of seven living on the road. Two, there are no footpaths for walkers. And three, with the Tarland road works the situation is exacerbated with people using it as a bypass.
“I would say that if there could be a better observance of the limit, It would be a better place to live in.”
