Restoration work is to begin on a collapsed section of the Huntly Castle Bridge.

The works are part of a wider conservation plan for the historic structure in Aberdeenshire.

Located adjacent to Huntly Castle, the bridge suffered extensive structural damage in February 2009 when a section of the downstream sidewall collapsed. Recently, the bridge was listed as a Category A structure.

Work is expected to start on phase one of an overall conservation plan from today (22 January) and as a result, the bridge will be closed to pedestrians for 12 weeks. The programme of works will include stabilising the structure and taking down a timber walkway constructed above the collapsed section, which is supported on the original masonry arch.


When completed, the bridge will reopen to non-motorised and pedestrian traffic only. An inner modern structural wall will be constructed to allow the carriageway to be reinstated at its original level. Phase one will be carried out by Chap Construction Aberdeen Ltd at an estimated cost of £60,000.

In phase two, the bridge will be restored to its original appearance, including matching masonry facing for the collapsed section, as well as the conservation of the other main elements of the structure, such as the arch barrel and other side walls.

Peter Argyle, Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee, said: "The bridge is a key part of the Huntly Core Path network, a popular and scenic circular walk used regularly by members of the public and tourists.

"The bridge has a clear association with Huntly Castle, which itself is a major tourist attraction for Huntly and of national historical significance, so it is good to see this work progress for a number of important reasons."

(JP/IT)