The new flashing signs at the junction of the A980 and B977 near the Raemoir House Hotel will warn motorists to slow down when activated by vehicles travelling faster than 40mph.

The electronic signs are the latest in a series of planned remedial measures undertaken by the council and Dunecht Estates to improve road safety at the junction.

The actions came in response to a petition sent to local councillors from drivers who regularly use the route and concerns raised by the owner of the Raemoir House Hotel. Aberdeenshire Council has said that the vehicle activated signs on the approaches to the junction should be up and running this week - weather permitting.

Banchory and Mid Deeside councillor Karen Clark has welcomed the announcement.

She said: "The aim is that these new signs will focus the drivers' attention on the hazard ahead. We are hopeful that this electronic message combined with the improved visibility at the junction will significantly increase road safety.

"I would like to thank the council's Road Safety Engineering Unit for their prompt and dedicated efforts to get these remedial measures in place. Dunecht Estates have also been exceptionally helpful in working with the council in clearing the surrounding vegetation and carrying out extensive tree felling at the junction. At the end of the day it is still down to the motorists who use the junction to be cautious and watch their speed but these are positive safety steps which I hope will make a substantial difference."

Aberdeenshire Council roads officials last year reported an increase in accidents at the junction since January 2008.

A member of staff at the Raemoir House Hotel was seriously injured last year when her car collided with a van outside the hotel.