The Naver Bridge replacement project on the A836 near Bettyhill has marked a major milestone with the installation of 30 precast bridge beams and a special visit from local schoolchildren keen to learn about the engineering taking place on their doorstep.
Contractors Wills Bros completed the installation earlier this month, lifting beams measuring over 21 metres in length and weighing around 23 tonnes into place with a 500-tonne crane.
The work forms part of the wider North Coast 500 route improvement programme and represents a key stage in delivering a modern and resilient new crossing for the area.
To celebrate the achievement, a group of 13 pupils and two teachers from Farr High School were welcomed on site to learn more about bridge design, construction, and career opportunities in civil engineering.
The visit was hosted by Wills Bros Community Liaison Officer Angela Newlands and Site Administrator Isobel MacLeod, whose son, Ruraidh, is a former pupil of the school and now works on the project as a Civil Engineer.
The students enjoyed a presentation on safety and construction methods before observing the site from a designated viewing area overlooking the newly installed beams.
Their visit ended back at the site office, where they were treated to juice, biscuits, and a few Wills Bros goodie bags to take home.
Wills Bros Civil Engineering is completing the works on behalf of The Highland Council.
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said the visit was an inspiring way to connect young people with the region’s ongoing infrastructure investment.
“I am delighted that local school children have had the opportunity to see this exciting project taking shape,” he said.
“This vital transport link is a major north coast project which demonstrates our commitment to improving infrastructure in rural areas of Highland.”
Wills Bros Site Engineer Hamza Chaudhary said it was a pleasure to host the pupils during such an important stage of the project.
“It was brilliant to have the pupils on site during such an exciting phase,” he said.
“Seeing the bridge take shape while inspiring young people to think about engineering careers really brings home the impact of what we do, both for local communities and future generations.”
The Highland Council has thanked all staff and partners involved in safely completing this complex phase of work.
