THE Aberdeen bypass may be more efficient than anticipated when it comes to easing congestion in Scotland’s third-largest city, according to new data.

Opened on February 19 last year, the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) was intended to cut traffic through the city, particularly HGVs.

A “data snapshot” has shown HGV congestion fell between 49% and 61% on the A92 artery – known as the A90 before the road opened – through Aberdeen, depending on the location surveyed, between January and June last year when compared with the same period in 2014. Initially, it was thought traffic would reduce by between 20% and 36%.

The project was a joint investment between Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council and the Scottish Government.

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: “The AWPR’s first anniversary is a significant milestone and it is important to recognise the transformational effect this project has had on people’s daily lives in the north-east.

“In addition to the widely reported improvements to journey times for drivers using the AWPR, it is clear from the reduction in the proportion of HGVs on the A92 that businesses are benefitting from the option of a faster and more reliable route to and from the north-east. Equally, other road users and communities alike benefit greatly from HGVs transferring to the new road.”

Aberdeenshire Council leader Jim Gifford said: “These initial statistics echo the positive indications we’ve had from residents and businesses about reduced and more predictable journey times.

“The reduction in HGV traffic from rural routes is really being noticed, along with an overall reduction of traffic on the B-class network. We’re also hearing of increased visitor numbers to the likes of Stonehaven and Westhill as a result of the improved infrastructure.”