Historic Invergarry footbridge to close for public safety
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is closing the Black Bridge at Invergarry (in the week commencing 8 June) for further structural safety assessments after it was deemed to be unsafe.
Historically used by local crofters to attend church and these days used by residents, children going to school and visitors heading to the nearby Youth Hostel, elements of the structure – including the boards – are showing signs of deterioration.
The Category B Listed historic structure, thought to be around 130 years old, is part of the Core Path (Black Bridge to Mandally Road) and is constructed out of timber decking and members that are either wrought iron or what is known as “early steel”, which has similar properties.
The bridge is not on FLS-managed land but is a legacy from Forestry Commission days when a local land owner ‘passed it across’ to the then forestry body.
FLS’ Area Visitor Services Manager, David John Robertson, said;
“The bridge is a local feature and has long been used by residents and visitors but its age has caught up with it.
“A Structural Engineering Report in 2023 flagged up that the bridge was nearing the end of its working life and we might now be at that stage. A visual inspection carried out last week identified extensive rot in the decking boards and deteriorating metal work that clearly indicated that the bridge is now unsafe, so in the interests of public safety we are going to have to close it.
“We’ll now assess the extent of deterioration of the bridge and also to consider what – if any – repair or replacement options there are, as well as removal costs.
“We appreciate that this will be disappointing and disruptive for local residents and visitors but public safety is always paramount.”
FLS will continue to liaise with the community throughout the assessment process with a view to exploring potential action, which might include seeking external funding for repairs or replacement, or recording the bridge for posterity before removing the structure.
Instead of using the footbridge, pedestrians and walkers will have to take a slightly longer route on the footpath by the main road.
Notes to editors
- Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
- Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot