New call for action over bridge delay Temporary solution rejected
Disappointment has been expressed over the length of time being taken to repair a collapsed bridge on the outskirts of Balfron.
In May this year, we told how farmers and HGV drivers were left facing a 19mile diversion after part of Branshogle Bridge, on the B818, collapsed, closing the route.
The structure partially collapsed back in March but consultants for Stirling Council fear that “a further collapse is likely”, resulting in the full closure.
Nearby residents and businesses raised concerns over the length of diversion as well as the volume of traffic forced onto other surrounding roads.
Last month, council officers staged online meetings with those affected by the closure to address concerns.
Among the questions raised with council officers was that of putting a temporary structure in place in order to re-open the route, which was kicked into touch.
A Stirling Council spokesperson this week told the Observer: “The installation of a temporary structure at the Branshogle Bridge has been considered and was assessed to be a measure which could have negatively impacted on the delivery of a long-term repair solution.
“As discussed at these meetings, the council is focused on a future-proof full repair of the bridge and work on this project continues.”
Residents in nearby Boquhan contacted Killearn Community Council to raise concerns over the volume and speed of traffic travelling through the small hamlet, believed to be caused by traffic diverting there as a result of the bridge closure.
On those concerns, the Stirling Council spokesperson added: “We would encourage residents anywhere to report speeding traffic to Police Scotland to help the council assess what, if any, measures are required to be put in place.”
Forth and Endrick Tory councillor, Jane Hutchison, has been pressing for a speedy and coordinated approach to the repair, this week said: “While I’m pleased that the public meeting I have been calling for finally took place, I’m extremely disappointed at the approach being taken. Surely a temporary crossing could have been, and could still be, installed that would not compromise on a long -term repair.
“Given the continued delays this must be put back on the table and options thoroughly investigated urgently to get one in place.”
Balfron Community Council had representatives attend the meetings and have now called for a review of other structures in the area, after a second bridge was closed off this week due to a burst water pipe last month. Ballochruin bridge has been closed to allow for repair works.
Community council chairman, Colin Cameron, told the Observer: “Balfron Community Council has expressed considerable concern over the closure of both Branshogle and Ballochruin bridges, and asked that an urgent review be carried out of all the bridges surrounding the village, as it would not take many more road closures to isolate the village entirely.
“We attended the recent online public meeting about the Branshogle bridge organised by Stirling Council, and were dismayed by the lengthy timeline presented for repair and rebuild. We recognise the pressure on council budgets, but the state of repair of rural roads and bridges is woefully inadequate.”