Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, was on hand to officially reopen the bridge on Friday, October 4th. The upgrade is part of SSE Renewables' 49.9MW Aberarder Wind Farm project, which is currently under construction in Strathnairn.
The Flichity area is prone to flooding due to its proximity to the River Nairn. The new bridge and road redesign will help to mitigate this risk by raising the road levels across the bridge and its approaches. This will ensure that local residents can continue to access essential services, even during severe weather conditions.
Construction on the new bridge began in April of this year. A temporary road and bridge were installed while the old Flichity Bridge was removed and replaced. The project has been completed on schedule and within budget.
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Kate ForbesDeputy First Minister for Scotland and MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, said: "It was a pleasure to officially open the new bridge at Flichity as the culmination of a multi-million pound project by SSE Renewables.
"Over the past few years flooding has been an increasing problem at the old bridge, and at times even unpassable for 4x4s, so remedial works to reduce the flood risk here are warmly welcomed and will hopefully make a significant difference for local residents.
"It shows what can happen when developers work proactively with Highland communities to provide a positive and meaningful legacy for everyone's benefit."
Heather DonaldDirector of Onshore Wind, Solar & Battery – SSE Renewables, added: "I'm delighted that Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes MSP, has been able to come and officially reopen the Flichity Bridge today.
"This £2.5m investment by SSE Renewables as part of our Aberarder Wind Farm project will benefit the local communities living along the B851 route and will allow the project team to safely transport components to site while leaving a lasting legacy for residents after construction is completed.
"Community benefit is at the heart of all SSE Renewables projects and it's great to have worked in partnership with the Highland Council to deliver the Flichity Bridge upgrade."
The Flichity Bridge on the B851 is the main road linking the A9, towards Fort Augustus for the communities of Strathnairn and Stratherrick and Foyers. In partnership with the Highland Council, it was agreed that SSE Renewables would replace the bridge to be used as part of the wind turbine delivery route for Aberarder Wind Farm, a welcomed investment of £2.5 million for the local community.
Aberarder Wind Farm is currently under construction and work is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
