New footbridge leading to historic Deeside Way opened
10/03/10
A NEW footbridge providing improved continuity along Aberdeen's historic Deeside Way has been officially opened.
Regional transport body Nestrans has invested £170,000 into the structure which crosses over West Cults Road and has been designed and delivered by Aberdeen City Council.
The Deeside Way is a popular travel and recreation route used by residents and visitors to the region. On average, more than 500 pedestrians and 200 cyclists per day have been recorded by the monitor at the eastern end of the route.
The new footbridge has greatly improved safety standards at the site. Previously users had to negotiate a steep slope down to cross West Cults Road and then climb back up a slope to rejoin the route.
It is hoped the bridge will make the route more attractive to the public and encourage further walkers and cyclists to use it for leisure or commuting.
Councillor Kevin Stewart, chairman of Nestrans, said: "We are extremely pleased that work on this new bridge has been completed on time and on budget and firmly believe the improvements will be beneficial to people of all ages and abilities.
"Through the Getabout initiative, Nestrans is working hard to promote walking and cycling as attractive alternative travel options and we hope that improving the standard of the route through the provision of facilities such as the new bridge and accessibility and resurfacing work undertaken by Sustrans in recent years will encourage more people to take advantage of the walking and cycling opportunities we have here on our doorstep."
Councillor Stewart formally opened the bridge during a short ribbon cutting ceremony attended by local councillors, civic dignitaries and other invited guests.