Agenda, decisions and minutes

The agenda and reports associated with this minute can be found at:-

https://committees.aberdeencity.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=484&MId=3906&Ver=4

Please note that if any changes are made to this minute at the point of approval, these will be outlined in the subsequent minute and this document will not be retrospectively altered.

We the undersigned petition the council to enter into urgent discussions with Transport Scotland, Aberdeen Roads Ltd and other relevant parties to ensure the Deeside Way is not permanently re-routed in Milltimber and we propose that the Deeside Way should retain its original route, using a dedicated, non-vehicular bridge over the new Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR).

Justification:

The Deeside Way runs from the centre of Aberdeen to Ballater, and is widely enjoyed by residents, visitors, walkers, cyclists and horse-riders. It is also used frequently for charity events. It follows the line of the Old Royal Deeside Railway and is now part of the official National Cycle Network. However, the pathway represents much more than connectivity; it is also part of our history and listed as a Heritage Pathway of Scotland.

We highlight the statement made by the Reporters following the AWPR Inquiry (‘Report to the Scottish Ministers’, published 2009), that the proposed diversion at the Deeside Way Right of Way would be less than ideal (Chapter 10.180). Hence, this petition supports the construction of a dedicated non-vehicular bridge over the AWPR, rather than using a diversion via Station Road. This would maintain high levels of safety for all users of the Deeside Way, and preserve the integrity of this Heritage Pathway.

The Committee had before it the following petition which had been submitted by Dr John Bevan –

‘We the undersigned petition the council to enter into urgent discussions with Transport Scotland, Aberdeen Roads Ltd and other relevant parties to ensure the Deeside Way is not permanently re-routed in Milltimber and we propose that the Deeside Way should retain its original route, using a dedicated, non-vehicular bridge over the new Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR).

The Convener explained the process and invited the lead petitioner, Dr John Bevan to present his case to the Committee.  Dr Bevan explained that the new proposed diversion would create two separate problems.  Firstly the threat to public safety and secondly it interferes with the Scottish Heritage of the Deeside Way.  Dr Bevan outlined that the current diversion was lengthy and residents did not realise what the permanent solution was when it was proposed and agreed by Scottish Ministers.  He advised that the diversion would affect many people who enjoy the Deeside Way, including walkers, cyclists, children and people exercising their animals and the proposed use of Station Road was not fit for purpose and not safe.  He intimated that there was no drainage so the road was prone to flooding and icing.  Dr Bevan also offered an alternative solution to the diversion.  Dr Bevan went on to advise that National Heritage Pathways had shown a concern regarding the diversion and intimated that the Deeside Way was the only National Heritage Path under the direct care of Aberdeen City Council.

Dr Bevan went on to explain that the petition had gathered over 1700 signatures and noted that Aberdeenshire residents and tourists had also shared their concerns, however they were not eligible to sign the petition.  Dr Bevan concluded his presentation by advising that the petition was not against the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Road but just against the closure of the Deeside Way.

Councillors Boulton spoke as a local member for Lower Deeside and highlighted her concerns regarding the closure of the Deeside Way.  Councillor Boulton explained that she did not feel that the alternative route which was proposed was suitable and felt that it would force people into using their vehicles instead of walking due to safety concerns.

Councillor Malik also spoke as a local member for Lower Deeside and echoed Councillor Boulton’s concern on the situation.

Members then asked the Petitioner a number of questions regarding the petition whereby it was clarified that residents from five houses use Station Road as an access road to their property.

Members then asked officers present a number of questions whereby it was noted that this situation was debated at the public enquiry and orders were made and agreed in 2010, and all action was now underway.  The diversion would be an additional 60 metres for people using the Deeside Way.  It was also noted that extensive discussions had taken place with Camphill hospital and they were aware of the diversion.  Mike Cheyne, Roads Infrastructure Manager, advised that as  ...  view the full minutes text for item 1.

The Committee had before it the minute of the previous meeting of 20 April 2016 for approval.

The Committee resolved:-

 to approve the minute as a correct record.

- COUNCILLOR ALAN DONNELLY, Convener