Historic bridge condition survey due in the summer

Craigellachie Bridge was designed by Thomas Telford more than 200 years ago

A condition survey which could open the door to the restoration of a historic Speyside bridge is hoped to be completed by the end of the summer.

Craigellachie Bridge, designed by Thomas Telford more than 200 years ago, has faced an uncertain future including ownership concerns and worries about its state.

The Friends of Craigellachie Bridge are to fund the structural survey through fundraising and support from local businesses after Moray Council passed on the right to assess the bridge to the campaign.

The survey is expected to cost in the region of £20,000.

Campaigners have spent more than a decade trying to find out who owns the bridge.

Previous condition assessments had also been commissioned.

In March, Moray councillors discussed options for its future including a compulsory purchase order, or doing nothing which would cost more than £1m as this would lead to a state of disrepair.

It was agreed to allow Friends of Craigellachie to commission a structural survey before further decisions are made.

Boyd Ross, vice-chair of the group, said: "We really feel that something's got to be done to help the bridge survive, and where we start with that is, of course, a full structural survey.

"We won't own the bridge. We don't want to own bridge. We don't want a community asset transfer.

"However, once we have the survey, we'll work with Moray Council to find the most pragmatic way forward for the restoration."

Mr Ross added campaigners had also contacted Historic Environment Scotland, the National Lottery, as well as major local businesses to support efforts.

The bridge was cast in sections in Wales