Path closures and project updates

On this page you can view details of path closures and updates on path project works in Aberdeenshire.

Please take care to keep yourself and others safe when exercising access rights, and remember that the outdoors can't be made risk-free.

Bennachie – Maiden Causeway and Turnpike Paths

Due to forestry operations, the paths from the Rowantree carpark near Chapel of Garioch, namely the Maiden Causeway and Turnpike, are temporarily closed. Find out more about the East Bennachie and Bedehouse forestry operations.

Tarlair Lido Path in Macduff

At Tarlair Lido the footpath to the rear of the Pavilion has been closed due to falling rocks from the cliffs above the path. It will remain fully closed until a safety assessment has been made on safety grounds.

Temporary closure signs are in place at both ends of the site.

Bullers of Buchan coastal path

Due to the recent storm damage to the footbridge a section of the costal path at Bullers of Buchan has been closed. 

Fraserburgh: Wine Tower to Four Winds Shelter

The path from the Wine Tower in Fraserburgh to the Four Winds Shelter is closed due to significant erosion on the shore, and the slip is very close to the path edge. This may affect the path if damaged by any further storms. Due to the potential for further rock falls and injury we have signposted both ends of the path with path closed signs to prevent access.

Crovie to Gardenston, Sneuk path closed

The Sneuk path between Crovie and Gardenstown has been closed due to significant rock fall and the potential for further rock falls and injury while crossing. We have signposted with path closed signs and blocked the path with Herras Fence to prevent access. This will remain in place till we can survey the site, clear the obstruction and repair any damage.

Suspension Bridge (Shakin Brig) from Edzell Woods to Edzell, closed

Storm Babet has caused structural damaged to the pedestrian suspension bridge along the path leading to Edzell from Edzell Woods, therefore for public safety the bridge has been closed.

Coastal path north of Portlethen village

Severe weather has damaged the coastal path north of Portlethen village, leaving a section of steps unsafe. The public are advised not to use the path.

Battlehill Wood, Huntly

Battlehill Wood currently has an area of storm-damaged trees in the midsection of the wood. While the circular path has been partially cleared to allow access through the fallen trees, it remains restricted around the northern section. The smaller circular route is fully accessible. Efforts are currently underway to appoint contractors who will address and clear the remaining storm-damaged area at Battlehill. It is anticipated this will be complete by early 2025.

Formartine and Buchan Way

There will be no access to the Formartine and Buchan Way for 900 meters between Riverside Road Ellon and Esslemont Bridge (PDF 580KB). This is due to upgrade works from 26th August 2024, until 31st January 2025. There is no suitable diversion route available.

The section of path between Station House and Esslemont Bridge has been completed and is now open.

Aberdeenshire Coastal Path

Following damage caused by extreme weather, sections of coast path have become difficult, and in some cases dangerous, to use. The council is reviewing the condition of these paths and therefore not currently promoting the Aberdeenshire Coastal Path.

Cowie to Stonehaven Golf Course upper cliff path

After past and more recent storm damage the path width has narrowed along two sections of the upper cliff path from the golf course lay-by/picnic area (above Cowie), to St Mary’s church.

Cowie to Stonehaven Golf Course lower cliff path

After assessing a rockfall on the lower Cowie to upper golf course cliff path link, in the interests of public safety, the path has been closed until further notice.