A historic footbridge that has served generations of residents and visitors in Invergarry is set to close after inspectors raised serious concerns about its condition.
Forestry and Land Scotland has announced that the Black Bridge will close during the week beginning 8 June while further structural assessments are carried out.
For more than a century the bridge has provided a crossing point for local people, schoolchildren and visitors heading to nearby attractions including the youth hostel.
The Category B Listed structure is believed to be around 130 years old and remains a familiar landmark in the village.
Originally used by crofters travelling to church, the bridge forms part of a popular core path linking Black Bridge and Mandally Road.
However, its age is now beginning to show.
Recent inspections found extensive rot in the timber decking and signs of deterioration in the bridge’s metalwork, prompting fears that the structure may no longer be safe for public use.
Forestry and Land Scotland says a structural engineering report carried out in 2023 had already warned that the bridge was nearing the end of its working life.
A further visual inspection undertaken last week confirmed concerns about its condition.
Area Visitor Services Manager David John Robertson said:
“The bridge is a local feature and has long been used by residents and visitors but its age has caught up with it.
“A Structural Engineering Report in 2023 flagged up that the bridge was nearing the end of its working life and we might now be at that stage.
“A visual inspection carried out last week identified extensive rot in the decking boards and deteriorating metal work that clearly indicated that the bridge is now unsafe, so in the interests of public safety we are going to have to close it.
“We’ll now assess the extent of deterioration of the bridge and also to consider what, if any repair or replacement options there are, as well as removal costs.
“We appreciate that this will be disappointing and disruptive for local residents and visitors but public safety is always paramount.”
The bridge itself is not located on Forestry and Land Scotland managed land but became part of its responsibilities through arrangements dating back to the former Forestry Commission.
Officials will now examine possible options including repairs, replacement or seeking external funding to preserve the crossing.
Should restoration prove impossible, the structure may be recorded for historical purposes before any future removal.
In the meantime, walkers and residents will need to use an alternative route alongside the main road, adding a short detour to journeys that have crossed the Black Bridge for generations.
