Section of £16m flood protection scheme facing ‘significant’ delay


A section of the multi-million pound flood protection scheme at Stonehaven is likely to face a ‘significant’ delay, Aberdeenshire Council has said.

Late 2022 or early 2023 is now the anticipated completion date of the work, with the local authority saying it comes as a result of revisions to the design and construction phases in on area of the scheme known as Zone 1B from White Bridge to Bridgefield Bridge.

The council added that the ‘vast majority’ of the project, apart from Zone 1B, will be completed by summer 2021. Assurances have also been given to residents that the revisions will not affect the visual appearance of the scheme.

Provost of Aberdeenshire, councillor Bill Howatson, said, “It is, of course, extremely disappointing and regretful that one area of the Stonehaven flood protection Scheme is facing significant delay owing to an issue surrounding the implementation of one vital element. Those residents affected by this delay have our utmost sympathy and, moving forward, our main priority will be to continue engaging with both them and the wider community. The council remains committed to the completion of this vitally important project.”