Snow gate plan to close off Glens of Foudland during snow storms

PHYSICAL snow gates could be erected on the A96 either side of the notorious Glens of Foudland near Huntly.

BEAR Scotland Ltd on behalf of Transport Scotland propose to install the gates which would shut off the highest and most exposed part of the route during episodes of severe weather.

In February last year during blizzards, efforts to clear the route were hampered by vehicles coming through.

One set would be in the area of the junction for the A97 just on the edge of Huntly and the other would be in the vicinity of the existing lay by at Morgan McVeighs.

David Wright, operations/winter service manager for Bear Scotland said: "Severe weather on this route has previously caused the road to become impassable and dangerous to motorists.

"In order to restrict access on such occasions and to protect road users and maintenance workers during these periods, it is proposed that manually operated gates will be constructed at either end of the section in order to allow safe closure of the roadway and minimise the risk to the travelling public."

But concerns have been raised about the impact the closure of the gates could have on emergency vehicles, in particular ambulances trying to take people to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.

Bear Scotland have warned that while the work is under way, drivers can expected delays on the route due to lane closures but Mr Wright added: "It is hoped that the long-term benefits will outweigh the inconvenience."

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