Inverness river crossing closed after damage found
The 140-year-old Infirmary Bridge provides a shortcut across the River Ness
- Published
A 140-year-old metal footbridge over the River Ness in Inverness has been closed after the discovery of structural damage.
A routine inspection of the Infirmary suspension bridge earlier this month identified that part of the structure, called a hanger, had sheared. The crossing was closed for safety reasons.
Following further examination a small number of similar defects on other hangers were found.
Highland Council said it was in the process of appointing a contractor to carry out the repairs, but added that it could not confirm a timescale for the reopening of the bridge at this stage.
Last year, Highland Council planned to start making repairs to the bridge but the work was delayed.
Officials said at the time the scheme had been pushed back because money was needed for other projects, including repairs to Inverness' Rose Street Car Park.
In the past the bridge has been closed during major events to prevent too much weight being put on it.