Aberdeenshire Council Trials Lower Carbon Road Infrastructure Near Mintlaw
New solar-powered studs, reflective signs, and road markings are being tested on the A952 to reduce long-term carbon emissions.
By Kirsty Lennox
••3 min read
AI
Generic image of solar-powered road studs on a road surface.
Aberdeenshire Council is set to trial innovative, lower carbon road infrastructure options on a stretch of the A952 near Mintlaw, aiming to reduce long-term emissions.
The trial, taking place between the East Mains of Pitfour roundabout and the pavilion on North Street, will feature the installation of highly reflective signs, new road markings, and solar-powered studs. These measures are intended to decrease the carbon footprint associated with the construction and upkeep of major route infrastructure.
Solar-powered road studs will be installed on October 29 and 30. During these days, North Street to the C4B road will be closed from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, with diversions in place via the A952, A90, and A952.
As part of the testbed, streetlights on October 30 will be switched off on the approaches to the Balring Roundabout and southwards on the A952 to just north of the garden centre access. Mitigation measures, including solar-powered studs and passive infrared sensor-controlled lighting at a pedestrian island, have been designed to address minimal pedestrian activity after dark in this village-edge area.
Aberdeenshire Council is collaborating with East Riding of Yorkshire Council on this initiative as part of the Live Labs 2 research programme. This UK-wide, three-year, £30 million initiative, funded by the Department for Transport, focuses on decarbonising local highways infrastructure.
The council has previously invested approximately £6 million in energy reduction measures over the last decade, upgrading over 90% of its street lighting to low-energy LED units, which reduced energy consumption by 60%. Further reductions are now being explored through reduced lighting levels, hours, or locations.
The full cost of the trial works, funded by an £89,500 grant from the project, will also involve monitoring changes in driver behaviour using AI technology. Comprehensive risk assessments have been conducted by ERYC, with a further safety audit scheduled after the lights are switched off.
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"We are delighted to be working in partnership with the Live Labs 2 programme to trial this important new technology in our region. The trial at Mintlaw will test alternatives such as new lighting designs, solar studs and improved signing and lining to cut carbon, costs and improve safety. We will rigorously monitor and evaluate throughout the trial and, if successful, we will consider a wider roll-out of improvements in the future."
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"We acknowledge that the temporary road closure required to deliver essential improvements will inevitably add time to journeys for some road users. While this disruption is regrettable, it is important that all drivers adhere to the signed diversion routes and drive with care and consideration throughout the closure period. These improvements will deliver long-term benefits for all motorists once the project is complete."
