Grampian Timber Transport Group had previously indicated to the Council that the new route would significantly reduce the number of timber haulage vehicles passing through Alford. In fact, timber haulage will still continue to travel through Alfor
d en-route to other regions, regardless.
The Council clearly states there is no woodland or commercially grown timber on this stretch and further states "any timber being transported on a south-west / north-east axis should only use the A980 / A944 through the centre of Alford".
The Tough to Muggarthaughroad was not constructed to accomodate such heavy vehicles, the Council's plans do not incorporate any road strengthening and completely overlook the deteriorating walls, dykes and crumbling aqua duct that are clearly visible on an already fragile narrow road. The plans do not address the many dangerous sections of the road; the proposed meagre road widening and passing places will mainly be situated along the straight sections of road, due to apparent cost restraints, instead of where they are most needed.
The Council declared environmental benefits from the four miles saving by using this route is completely unsubstantiated. It is a fact and well documented that driving down winding country roads having to continually stop and start is much less efficient, it actually increases fuel consumption and at the same time discharges more CO2 emissions.
The community indicated it did not wish to adopt this unclassified road as a timber haulage route for a number of reasons, as recorded at the meetings. Timber traffic should use appropriate routes and be directed away from weak, sub-standard public roads. The community wants to see the blind bends removed and substantial road improvements along the whole road, providing better safety, visibility and convenience to other road users and communities, and especially since the proposed route runs directly in front of Tough Primary School and many roadside properties along its entire route.
Yours etc
Gillian Taylor Shaw
Muir of Fowlis
