Safety calls for footpath besides busy Moray road

MORAY’S MP is calling for a footpath to be built alongside the busy A941 at Fogwatt before someone gets hurt.

Currently pedestrians have no option but to walk on the grass verge just inches away from fast-moving cars and lorries.

Douglas Ross said: "Residents in Fogwatt are extremely anxious and you can see for yourself that there is a real issue here.

"A proper pavement is needed to allow local people to safely reach the bus stops, including the ones used by children for school bus pick-ups.

"At the moment pedestrians are relying on a track worn though the grass by continued use. This just isn’t safe and it is unthinkable to imagine an accident happening when it could have been prevented.

"There may be an opportunity to use some windfarm funding. I hope we can get everyone around the table."

Mr Ross has written to HITRANS and BEAR Scotland to ask them to look urgently at the situation

Willie Duncan, who represents Fogwatt and Birnie on Heldon Community Council, has long been campaigning on the issue.

Speaking on behalf of the council, he said: "The A941 acts as a conduit for heavy transport delivering goods to the Elgin area.

"Over the years there has been a speed restriction of 50mph provided along with street lights which helps, however one way forward would be a footpath running the length of Fogwatt.

"We are currently speaking to a number of partners and organisations to try and make this happen."