Footbridge in Highland capital reopens following temporary closure on health and safety grounds

A popular bridge in the middle of the Highland capital has reopened after it was temporarily closed due to health and safety concerns.

The Infirmary Bridge across the River Ness in Inverness was closed last month due to defects in the timber deck boarding, posing a health and safety hazard.

Highland Council confirmed this afternoon that interim repairs have been completed and the bridge has now reopened.

As a major refurbishment of the bridge is being planned, the council opted for interim repairs to the bridge decking.

But the repairs were delayed due to a national shortage of materials supplies.

In a statement, the council said: "Appreciating the importance of the bridge as a link across the River Ness for locals and visitors to get around the city, the council worked hard to source the necessary materials in order to get the bridge repaired and reopened as soon as possible.

"The council has allocated £550,000 capital maintenance funds for a major refurbishment of the Infirmary Bridge which is planned for the future.

"The refurbishment will include steelwork, partial repainting and installation of a new timber deck.

"The public are advised that a further future planned closure of the Infirmary Bridge for a period of potentially two to three months will be inevitable while the works are carried out on this listed status historical property.

"The council will be carrying out consultations with the local community, and other stakeholders later this year to present plans for the works."

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