Bridge completion will take extra two months
The completion of works to repair a collapsed bridge near Balfron has been delayed by more than two months.
Branshogle Bridge, on the B818, partially collapsed back in March last year but consultants for Stirling Council were left fearing that “a further collapse is likely”, resulting in a full closure.
The closure meant that lorries looking to head along the route, between Balfron and Fintry, were forced to take a lengthy detour via Buchlyvie, Arnprior and Kippen. Vehicles trying to access one farm along the B818 – Claylands – faced an almost 19-mile diversion to access the property.
Work to repair the structure began back in November last year and Stirling Council estimated that the programme of repairs would be completed by early April.
However, it was this week confirmed that the work had hit a series of delays and is now due for completion in late June.
A St i r l i n g C o u n c i l spokesperson said: “We wrote to the affected communities and residents last week to confirm that work on the Branshogle Bridge has unfortunately encountered unforeseen delays.
“This is an environmentally sensitive site that represents significant access and construction challenges.
Works have exposed more complex ground conditions than originally identified that require significant changes to the design, construction process and temporary support works.
“Progress has also been affected by recent storms and high water levels, with work now expected to be completed by the end of June.
“We are aware of the impact the closure is having on the community and the council is working closely with the contractor to ensure repairs are completed as soon as possible.
“We will continue to meet with the community throughout the duration of the works.”