Additional funding from the Scottish Government has allowed Moray Council to push ahead with repairs to a vital bridge over the River Spey.
The Boat o’Brig at Orton has deteriorated over the years to the point where there is a real danger it would be forced to close completely to heavy goods traffic, removing a vital transport rink for local industry.
Now the Council has confirmed that thanks to the additional capital funding they are able to commence with vital repairs to the bridge – but at a cost of a long period when it will be unavailable for use.
Work will start on September 16 and last for around seven months while new decking is put in place on the crossing.
During that time diversions will be in force, sending traffic along the A95 to the east of the Spey and the B9015 to the west. Traffic will then cross the river at the nearest upstream road bridge at Craigellachie.
A spokesman for Moray Council said: “The condition of the existing deck has deteriorated markedly in recent years and, without the refurbishment, the bridge may have been forced to close to HGVs and, eventually, to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
“The entire deck will be replaced with precast reinforced concrete section which should give the refurbished structure a lifespan of up to 120 years.
“The lower half of the steelwork will be cleaned and painted to extend its life by up to 25 years.”