New Bridge for Fairy Glen

Walkers in the Black Isle will be able to enjoy full access to the popular waterfalls of Fairy Glen nature reserve once again, with the completion of a new bridge across the Rosemarkie burn.  The bridge, funded with generous donations from the Biffaward Small Grant Scheme, Fortrose & Rosemarkie Common Good Fund and The Highland Council’s Black Isle Ward budget, has been constructed by soldiers from the Territorial Army’s 75 Engineer Regiment volunteering their time and skills.
 
The previous bridge had to be removed following severe damage sustained in a major storm in October 2006 which also washed away part of the river banks, and this meant that walkers and the local community were denied access to a popular footpath.  The new bridge will once again allow visitors to exit onto the A832 road and join the Black Isle footpath network, completing the path to Eathie. 
 
Local Highland Councillor, Billy Barclay said:  “Now that the bridge is up with thanks to the army the locals and visitors can once again enjoy this superb walk.  The Black Isle Councillors are delighted to have been able to work with the Fortrose and Rosemarkie Community Council and RSPB in pulling together the necessary funding package.  I know many families enjoy this lovely walk.  It is a recognised pathway with excellent parking close by since the Council improved the car park at the Fairy Glen Car Park.” 

Kate Horsfall, RSPB Assistant Central Highland Reserves Warden said: "It's fantastic that we can once again allow visitors to use this popular crossing.  We know that the local community was keen to be able to access the area again, and the waterfalls are popular with visitors, helping to draw valuable tourism into the area.  We're delighted that we were able to help the Community Council secure funding from our donors to allow us to put in the new bridge, and thanks must go to the guys from the army who have done a brilliant job this week, as well as the the Rosemarkie Amenities Association for letting the guys camp on the land."
 
Lieutenant Colonel Henry Ricketts, Commanding Officer of 75 Engineer Regiment said: "We are delighted to be able to practise our construction skills by completing construction tasks which offer a real benefit to the community.  It gives the soldiers a great sense of satisfaction to be able to deliver something tangible to people at home and we are indebted to the RSPB and to the local community for helping us to rebuild their footbridge."
 
ENDS