Council progresses the Mall Footbridge

The Highland Council’s Transport Environmental and Community Services Committee are making good progress with the replacement of the Mall footbridge over Thurso River, which was lost in the floods of October 2006.

The bridge provides a important pedestrian link to Thurso Cemetery and is one of the most popular walks in the town.

Following a meeting with officials, Thurso councillors have approved the form of the proposed new bridge, which will now go to tender next month. It is hoped that off-site fabrication will begin in September with a final on-site completion by March 2009.

Councillor John Rosie said: “This project has been my top priority for the area and I am delighted to see the fruition of the hard work by councillors and officials.”

Councillor The Lady Thurso said: “I am very pleased with the design of the new bridge and I am sure the public will welcome the return of this local amenity.”

The design by local civil and structural engineering consultant Arch Henderson has enabled the new deck walkway to be higher than the original bridge it replaces. The new structure is also designed to span the river without the need for a central pier support. With a higher deck and single span, the bridge will be able to better withstand future flood flows in the river.

The estimated value of the construction contract is £300,000.