Damage to Parapet Forces Closure of Laxford Bridge

Motorists are being advised that Laxford Bridge on the A838 Lairg – Durness Road is closed as the result of major structural damage caused by a road accident on Wednesday night.

An MOD vehicle struck a parapet of the bridge and toppled 30ft into the river below rendering the bridge unsafe for vehicular access. The occupants escaped serious injury.

Most affected by the closure will be people travelling to and from Rhiconnich, Kinlochbervie and Durness, who face a 60-100 mile detour, travelling via Altnaharra and Lairg.

Until the bridge is repaired, people wishing to travel between Durness – Lochinver or Durness – Ullapool are being diverted via the A838 from Durness - Tongue and the A836 Tongue –Lairg roads which then connect  with the A839 – A837 at Ledmore.

Campbell Stewart, The Highland Council’s Area Roads and Community Works Manager, said: “We are aware of the major inconvenience that this will cause for people who use this main route.  However, the bridge has been severely damaged and must remain closed for safety reasons. We are currently assessing the structural damage involved and as yet it is too early to say how long the bridge will be closed and how much it will cost to repair it.”