Communities hit by bridge closure promised support by Scottish Water

Scottish Water bosses have been quizzed by Stirling’s MP and local councillors over controversial extended closure of Ballat Bridge.

Representatives of the body, including Donald Milne, general manager Managed Delivery, met with councillors Martin Earl and Alistair Berrill and Stephen Kerr MP last Friday.

They discussed the recent announcement that an additional month’s road closure would be required on the A81 at Balfron Station to allow completion of the repair works at the bridge, which had been damaged in a road accident.

Scottish Water had communicated that the works would be completed week beginning May 7, with the road closure lifted, but following the most recent delay Stephen Kerr called an urgent meeting demanding an explanation.

Scottish Water representatives apologised for the further delay, explaining that whilst the bridge repairs had been completed, they had faced challenges with the installation of the crash barrier technology which was complex in nature but vitally important to ensure another collision could not have the same devastating effect.

They added that an additional month would allow them to complete this work to ensure the bridge was protected from any future incidents.

Information was also provided on electronic advanced warning systems which would be installed to further reduce the risk of any future collision.

Mr Kerr said: “Scottish Water was also challenged on their position of not compensating businesses and they reiterated their position about being a public body that does not normally pay compensation.

“They did, however, recognise the duration of this closure had been disruptive to the area and said they would work with elected representatives and the community to understand what support they could provide.

“I am pleased that there was an acknowledgement that the additional disruption caused by the latest delay needs to be addressed.

“We had a constructive dialogue as to how support could be delivered to our communities, resulting in an agreement that discussions will take place with community representatives regarding this.”