Monessie Bridge restoration gets under way

Major works to restore Monessie Gorge Suspension Bridge, which crosses the River Spean near Roy Bridge, began last week, writes Fiona Scott.

The popular walkway was closed with immediate effect in March after a structural survey deemed the bridge unsafe.

Jahama Highland Estates said it recognised the importance of the bridge for pedestrian access across the River Spean and prioritised the repair in order to ensure the provision of safe and secure long-term public access.

The solution required additional investigations by structural and design experts.

The south bank is on land owned by Jahama, while the north bank is on land owned by a third party.

An alternative temporary footbridge was not possible due to the nature of the gorge and the significant constraints involved in bridging it.

Signs were put in place on both banks and a physical barrier was installed to prevent access in the meantime.

Since taking ownership, Jahama - part of GFG Alliance - says it has been working to identify and correct a vast range of problems with the “dilapidated” infrastructure and assets it inherited across the landholding.

“This is a major part of our proactive, sustainable management strategy and requires significant, ongoing capital investment,” said Jahama liaison officer Jonathan Hart.

“Our regular whole-estate bridge audit identified potential issues with Monessie Bridge that required a further expert survey.

“The restoration is a large-scale and challenging operation and the bridge will remain closed for several more weeks while works are under way.” Further updates will appear on our pages over the coming weeks.