New bridge for Ross beauty spot

Scenic Rogie Falls near Garve. Pic by John Davidson

A NEW suspension bridge is to be installed at a Ross-shire beauty spot which attracts 50,000 visitors a year.

The bridge will span scenic Rogie Falls near Garve, a popular spot for watching salmon leap.

The existing bridge, which is owned by the Highland Council, was erected in 1975 and forms part of the Core Path Network. It is estimated that the site and its surrounding woodland attracts over 50,000 visitors per annum.

Members of the council’s planning, environment and development committee agreed to fund the project. The cash will come from its Core Path capital allocation for 2011/12.

Committee chairman, Councillor Ian Ross, said: "We did look at refurbishing the existing bridge to give a further five to 10 years use but it is more cost effective to provide a new bridge which can have a 50-year design life providing routine maintenance is carried out.

"The area is very popular with both tourists and locals and I am sure a new bridge will be welcomed by everyone who comes to Rogie Falls to enjoy the views and explore the woodlands."

The Forestry Commission will undertake the design and project management of the new bridge and work is expected to begin later this year. It is hoped that any disruption for people visiting the Rogie Falls area will be kept to a minimum.