A new project has been proposed which will involve upgrading a stretch of verge on the A96 near Lhanbryde into a shared use footway and cycleway.

The proposed project will involve the construction of a 2m wide shared use footway and cycleway over a 750m stretch from Lhanbryde eastwards adjacent to the A96.

The new shared use footway and cycleway will help create a safer link toward the popular Threaplands Garden Centre and Café, as well as connect users onto the low-trafficked Loch Oire road, which takes cyclists onto the existing cycleway toward Fochabers.

Once complete the project will help create enhanced pedestrian and cyclist facilities in the area and improve active travel.

In addition to the new shared use footway and cycleway, the proposed project will also involve providing a second crossing point and upgrading the existing crossing over the A96 to help ensure there is a safer access across the trunk road for pedestrians, cyclists and other non-motorised users.  New signage and road markings will also be installed to help improve road safety.

BEAR Scotland is welcoming feedback on the proposals, which are available to view on the BEAR Scotland website, by Monday 14 June.

Construction is expected to get underway in the summer.

Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North East Representative said: “The proposed project for the A96 east of Lhanbryde will help create a safer active travel link from the village toward Threaplands Café and Garden Centre.  From there, cyclists and pedestrians will be able to travel on the low-trafficked local road past Loch Oire where they can then join the existing shared use footway/ cycleway near Fochabers.

“Road safety is our top priority and the proposals will help ensure that the road network continues to provide safe travel options for all users, not just motorists.

“While no final decision has been made regarding the proposals, we’re working towards getting construction underway towards the end of summer.

“We welcome any feedback regarding the proposals and encourage people to submit their views via our website before Monday 14 June.

“We’ll then take into consideration any feedback received regarding the proposals and we’ll keep all stakeholders informed as to our progress.”

Members of the public can share any comments regarding the project on BEAR Scotland’s website here: https://www.bearscot.com/a96-lhanbryde-to-fochabers-footway-and-cycleway-project/