Local MSP Maree Todd has welcomed the decision by Highland Council’s local access officer and Forestry & Land Scotland (FLS) to keep the bridge at Inverlael Forest open for the community.
This bridge, a popular route for walkers and runners, was initially set for removal due to safety concerns, with no plans for replacement.
Following representations from local residents, Maree Todd MSP, and Councillor Liz Kraft, Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) and Highland Council have now confirmed that the bridge will stay open, but with FLS engineers conducting regular safety inspections.
Should the bridge’s condition deteriorate further, options for repair, replacement, or removal will be considered.
The Highland Council has agreed to explore funding options for ongoing maintenance.
Commenting on the decision, the Caithness, Sutherland & Ross MSP said:
“This is a positive interim solution.
“Safety is, of course, the priority, but I believe FLS may not have fully appreciated how often the Inverlael Forest bridge is used by both the local community and visitors.
“Without plans for a replacement, the loss of the bridge would have had a significant impact, limiting access to a much-loved route.
“Just this past weekend, I joined the Ullapool Forest Runs Group for a run through Inverlael Forest, where it was clear how important this bridge is for access and enjoyment of the forest.
“The bridge will likely need to be replaced in the near future, so hopefully we can begin looking at funding options now to ensure that when the time comes, we can move forward with a replacement bridge to keep this route accessible for the community.
“Regular safety inspections in the meantime will allow the well-used bridge to stay open.
“Thank you to Highland Council and FLS for engaging and listening to the local community.”
