Support for Glenisla landmark bridge repairs

A well-loved landmark bridge at Kirkton of Glenisla is attracting community support for much-needed urgent repairs.
Pictured at the bridge are (from left) Meg Mearns, Scott Cameron, Rohan Inglis, Cameron Speirs, Andrew Ross, Krystna Pytaz and Bob Ellis.Pictured at the bridge are (from left) Meg Mearns, Scott Cameron, Rohan Inglis, Cameron Speirs, Andrew Ross, Krystna Pytaz and Bob Ellis.
Pictured at the bridge are (from left) Meg Mearns, Scott Cameron, Rohan Inglis, Cameron Speirs, Andrew Ross, Krystna Pytaz and Bob Ellis.

The B-listed wrought iron Brackny Pedestrian Bridge crosses the River Isla and is part of the Cateran Trail, but is currently closed due to safety concerns.

The 19th century structure was subject to a recent engineer survey, which found that a section of the timber joists which support the decking have been found to be rotten. It has therefore been temporarily closed and the Cateran Trail rerouted via Whitehills Farm, a diversion of around 1.7 miles.

The local community has fundraised towards its repairs and Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT) is organising the project.

Andy Barrie, PKCT’s Strategic Routes Officer, said: “Designed by John Justice of Dundee, the bridge is nearly 200 years old and considered one of the oldest of its kind in Europe. Its preservation therefore is of utmost importance.

“It’s estimated that the deck will cost in the region of £10,000 to replace, with the restoration of the metalwork costing more than £100,000. Funding options are currently being considered and explored. It is hoped that a local working group will be created to help us with fundraising.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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