Works starts on new Glen Nevis bridge and path

A NEW bridge and path are being built at Glen Nevis Visitor Centre.

Work on the bridge at the Highland Council- owned centre was due to start last Monday, October 31, and will see the old structure being replaced with a new crossing across the river.

The existing bridge at the youth hostel will also be upgraded and the riverside path between the visitor centre and youth hostel will be upgraded.

The project is being delivered by Highland Council, Nevis Landscape Partnership and is funded by Highland Council, Heritage Lottery Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprises, Scottish Rural Development Programme and Sport Scotland.

Dingwall-based consulting engineers, Wallace Stone, worked with Highland Council and other stakeholders to develop designs for the bridge.

Councillor Audrey Sinclair of the planning committee said: ‘These improvements will enable a far wider range of visitors to enjoy the lower-level scenery and splendour of the glen and at the same time provide essential safety information and guidance for anyone climbing higher in the Nevis Range.

In addition to investment in the bridge, the Highland Council is also contributing £ 35,000 to refurbish the visitor centre to provide new, informative displays with vital mountain safety information for those venturing to the summit of Ben Nevis.

During construction work, diversions will be in place to maintain access to Ben Nevis. The youth hostel bridge will be closed until Friday December 2. The riverside path will be closed between until February 7 next year, with access via Achintee remaining open at all times.