A new section of footway and cycleway worth over £205,000 has recently been completed adjacent to the A96 between Lhanbryde and Fochabers.

The project supports the Scottish Government’s ambition to develop an active nation, making it easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys.

The works, which commenced in autumn last year, involved teams constructing a 2m wide shared use footway and cycleway over a 940m stretch from Lhanbryde eastwards adjacent to the A96. Works also involved the installation of a second crossing point as well as upgrades to the existing crossing over the A96 in the area. All major construction works have been completed but some minor signage works are still to be carried out.

BEAR Scotland would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community and road users for their patience during these works and hope the new active travel link will provide a safer route for all people choosing to walk, wheel and cycle.

Minister for Active Travel, Patrick Harvie, said: “I’m pleased to see the completion of the new walking, wheeling and cycling path next to the A96 between Lhanbryde and Fochabers.

“Delivered through a £205,000 investment from Scottish Government – these improvements will make it easier for people to choose active travel in their local community.

“We’re committed to building an active nation, where more people can choose to walk, wheel and cycle for shorter everyday journeys than ever before. With record funding currently available and a commitment to investing at least £320 million, or 10% of transport budget on active travel by 2024/25, we will continue to deliver similar improvements for communities right across the country.”

Commenting on the completed improvements, Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North East Representative, said: “This investment from Transport Scotland will provide the local community with a safer active travel link from the village towards Threaplands Café and Garden Centre for years to come.

“After all the hard work of our teams, we’re pleased to see the active travel link being used and welcomed by the local community. We hope this link will continue to encourage more active travel journeys in the area.

“We would like to thank road users and the local community for their patience while we carried out these works.”