Moray councillors back taking over new Lossiemouth bridge

Moray councillors have backed the principle of taking over a replacement Lossiemouth beach bridge.

The footbridge to Lossiemouth's East Beach was closed in July when structural engineers ruled it unsafe.

The Scottish government then committed to funding a replacement.

Moray Council said that after the bridge has been constructed it is expected the local authority will take ownership, and responsibility for ongoing inspection and maintenance.

• Bridge work to be funded by Scottish government

Council convener Shona Morrison said: "Reconnecting the town to the iconic East Beach is hugely important for locals, businesses and visitors alike."

Some people wanting to reach the beach waded across a river to avoid a detour in July, but later had to be helped by Coastguards.

As a result of the closure, Moray Council had said East Beach was still accessible via Lossiemouth forest car park - known as Arthur's Bridge - three miles away, and Kingston, seven miles away.