New footpath and cycleway proposed for A96 section near Lhanbryde
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A NEW path for cyclists and pedestrians could be created by the busy A96 near Lhanbryde.
The proposals involve upgrading a stretch of verge on the A96 to create a two-metre wide shared-use footway and cycleway, heading eastwards from Lhanbryde.
BEAR Scotland, which is responsible for managing the country's trunk road network, is seeking people's views on the plans.
The 750m-long path would create a safer link toward the popular Threaplands Garden Centre and Café. It would also connect users onto the Loch Oire road, which takes cyclists onto the existing cycleway toward Fochabers.
Construction is expected to get under way this summer on the plan, which is aimed at boosting active travel.
A second crossing point would also be created and the existing crossing over the A96 upgraded for safer passage across the trunk road.
New signage and road markings would also be installed.
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 under way towards the end of summer."
He added: "We welcome any feedback regarding the proposals and encourage people to submit their views via our website before Monday, June 14.
"We’ll then take into consideration any feedback received regarding the proposals and we’ll keep all stakeholders informed as to our progress."
Moray SNP MSP Richard Lochhead has been campaigning for the gap between existing cycle paths at Lhanbryde and Fochabers to be connected for a number of years following discussions with local cyclists.
He encouraged locals to share their feedback on the proposals with BEAR Scotland.
Mr Lochhead said: "For a number of years now I’ve been urging transport authorities to look at how they could improve the cycle path provision between Fochabers and Lhanbryde and pressing them to fill the gap that currently exists.
"The small gap in the route is something that has been raised with me many times by local cyclists and I’ve supported calls for it to be filled so we can have a safe and joined up route connecting Fochabers and Elgin.
"Proposals have now been published by BEAR Scotland, which feels like a big step forward in the campaign, and I would encourage everyone with an interest to have a look at the plans and to share their views with BEAR.
"There’s a lot of work being done to encourage people to leave their cars at home and to travel by bike and there’s no doubt that having good joined-up infrastructure is key to getting more people to choose active travel.
"As I keen cyclist myself, I know that these plans will be a real boost to the area and hopefully will encourage more people to get on their bikes."
People can share their views on the project here.
