Aberdeenshire Council has warned motorists to expect lengthy diversions as a result of resurfacing works being undertaken on a section of the A944 Aberdeen to Alford Road.

Regional transport body, Nestrans, is providing £121,000 towards work to improve the road at Tillyfourie. The improvements will be carried out by the Council.

Its roads team won a competitive tender to complete the job, which is expected to last for two weeks.

The road will be closed daily from 12 August, between 9am and 5.30pm between the junction with the B993 at Tillyfourie and the junction of C43M Whiteley, Tough.

The section of road will be open outside of those times, but motorists have been advised to drive with caution. Emergency and pedestrian access will be maintained and vehicular access to any affected properties will be maintained wherever possible.

-- Advertisement --

Some preparatory works will start in the area from 5 August, using traffic lights to keep disruption to motorists to a minimum, while site notices will be put in place indicating alternative routes, north and south. The northern diversion is 37 miles, while the southern route is 25 miles.

The northern diversion is: A944 Tillyfourie – B993 Tillyfourie; B993 – A96 Port Elphinstone; A96 – B992 Kellockbank; B992 – A944 Whitehouse; A944 – A944 Tillyfourie and vice versa.

The southern diversion is: A944 Tillyfourie – B993 Millbank; B993 – B9119 West Bandodle; B9119 – A980 Crossroads Hotel; A980 – A944 Bridge of Alford; A944 – A944 Whitehouse and vice versa.

Aberdeenshire Council's Head of Roads and Landscape Services, Philip McKay, said: "We always have to thank motorists for their patience throughout the summer when we're carrying out essential roadworks and for their understanding when any roads have to be closed.

"In particular, it's always good to hear motorists are observing traffic regulations such as road closures, we appreciate that for the safety of our staff.

"The necessary detours are significant while this section of the A944 is closed during the working day but the work will make a big improvement to the road – motorists are advised the detour will add to their journey time and they should allow additional time to complete trips safely.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate travellers' cooperation."

(JP/CD)