Divers to assess state bridge
A 245-year-old bridge over the River Forth is to undergo a survey to determine what restoration work it requires.
Concerns have been raised by residents over the state of Cardross Bridge on the B8034 between Arnprior and Port of Menteith.
The category B listed structure – which is still open to traffic – was constructed in 1774, with its parapet rebuilt in around 1972.
It was built by the government from the revenues of forfeited lands and has the inscription ‘THIS BUILDING ERECTED AD 1774 / HIS MAJESTY / GAVE IN AID TO IT OUT OF THE ANNEXED / ESTATES £250 STR.’ It featured the Latin phrase ‘Viator tuto transeas sis memor regii beneficii’ meaning ‘Traveller, may you cross safely. Be mindful of the Royal benefaction’. However the panel is now obscured by an early 21 century gabion wall or possibly even removed.
The bridge measures 200 feet long with coped parapet walls and splayed approaches.
However, following fears raised by communities on both sides of the bridge, Stirling Council is to carry out upgrade works.
A council spokesperson said: “We maintain more than 300 bridges and keeping them safe and fit for purpose is a priority. Cardross Bridge is a category B listed structure which requires planned works to be undertaken in a sympathetic manner. A dive survey needs to be undertaken before final proposals are determined, which has not been possible due to adverse weather and high water levels.
“Listed building consent is also required before any work takes place, which takes a minimum of four months to acquire.”
Arnprior Community Council raised in recent months concerns about cracks which have appeared in the bridge and “bulging” stonework.
Port of Menteith Community Council also expressed anxiety over cracks in the bridge and vegetation growing out of them.
Fears have also been expressed about vehicles ignoring the 10 tonne weight limit signposted there, particularly tourist buses during the summer and large vehicles making deliveries to farms and oil tankers.
Community councillors for Port of Menteith have considered making a request to Stirling Council for one of its 10 deployable CCTV cameras to be positioned there to nab drivers flouting the weight limit rules.
Trossachs and Teith Tory councillor, Martin Earl said: “There have been a lot of concerns raised about the amount of large vehicles that, despite the weight limit in place, continue to use this historic bridge and potentially weaken it. There may need to be more measures taken, such as installing a CCTV camera, as the only way to stop serious and expensive damage being caused.”