Council Awards Contract for the Mall Footbridge, Thurso

The Highland Council has awarded a contract for construction of a new footbridge which forms an important pedestrian link over the River Thurso,  at Thurso Cemetery.

The new bridge will replace the structure which was destroyed by river flood flow, in the storms of October 2006, and will re-establish the river crossing which is part of a popular local walking route.

Design of the new structure has been by consulting engineer Arch Henderson LLP and the contract for its construction has been awarded to McGregor Construction (Highlands) Ltd. The steel superstructure of the new bridge will be fabricated and galvanized off site, for erection on completion of abutment supports on either bank of the river.

The bridge project has been a priority for the three Thurso Highland Councillors, Lady Thurso, Donnie Mackay and John Rosie.

Councillor Rosie said: “This is a much cherished walk in one of the most beautiful and scenic areas of Scotland. There will be lots of very happy people in Thurso today who will be looking forward to again having the pleasure of this area restored to them.”

Valued at £250,000, the bridge will have a single span of over 36 metres.

Consent for the work (which is in a Site of Special Scientific Interest) has been given by Scottish Natural Heritage.