Plans for ‘multi-use’ path from Aboyne to Glen Tanar to be considered after local support | #childpredator | #onlinepredator | #sextrafficing

An application to create a new footpath from Aboyne to Glen Tanar has been lodged with Aberdeenshire Council.

Last year we told of a proposed ‘traffic-free’ route between the two areas, aimed at walkers, horse-riders and cyclists.

Nearby residents who were surveyed on the link were found to be highly supportive, with 420 of 422 voicing favour for the pathway. Additionally, a survey of Aboyne Academy pupils found that many would use the route to travel to school.

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Now, Aberdeenshire councillors will consider the route, which would start at Aboyne and run through to Glen Tanar at Bridge of Ess.

Plans involve extensive use of pre-existing tracks and paths but also include building new sections and upgrading some of the existing ones.

Documents submitted to the council state that the project already has “full support and cooperation of the landowners.”

The documents add that the ‘multi-use’ path would offer safe access for those visiting Glen Tanar to shop and restaurants in Aboyne whilst also cutting down car journeys in the area.

They state: “We want to encourage more sustainable active travel by providing a safe viable route to commute by bike, allowing local people and visitors to make sustainable everyday journeys between Glen Tanar & its primary service centre.”

They add: “At present, walking or cycling is extremely hazardous along the narrow busy B976 with blind bends and 60mph traffic. We want to develop 3km of mainly existing paths and tracks to create a suitable off-road route accessible to families & young people cycling on an easy low-level route.”