An £8million windfarm project will take a step forward today when parts of the turbines are delivered to the Mearns.
Auquhirie Land Co won permission to build three large masts at Hillhead of Auquhirie, near Stonehaven, last year.
Now the component parts of the 300ft turbines are to be transported to the site.
Due to their abnormally large size, the load – measuring 111ft long and 16ft wide – will be escorted from Montrose harbour by police.
The convoy will leave the harbour at 6.30am today, taking the A92 Montrose bypass, before cutting on to the A935 Montrose to Brechin road and the B966 Fettercairn to Auchenblae road, and then joining the A90 Dundee to Aberdeen road to travel towards Stonehaven.
It is expected to take until the end of the month for all parts to be delivered.
Sergeant Neil Morrison, from Stonehaven’s road policing department, said: “By their very nature, these wind turbine components are cumbersome and can be slow to manoeuvre.
“It takes great skill on the part of the lorry driver to ensure each load is moved safely and efficiently as possible.
“I would ask motorists to exercise patience and, if necessary, find an alternative route to avoid unwanted delays.”
Councillors approved plans for the development – despite concerns by locals and planners that it could have a negative impact on the area – in August 2010.
The company won permission for three 250ft turbines, but returned to ask the Kincardine and Mearns area committee to increase the height of the structures to 300ft, which will increase the power generated.