Thurso Cemetery Bridge Opening Ceremony

A ceremony is to be held on Friday 2 October to mark the opening of a new footbridge which forms an important pedestrian link over the River Thurso, below Thurso Cemetery.

The new Mall Bridge replaces the structure which was destroyed by river flood flow, in the storms of October 2006, and re-establishes the river crossing which is part of a popular local walking route.

Thurso Highland Councillor John Rosie will perform the opening, accompanied by his Thurso colleagues Councillors, Lady Thurso and Donnie Mackay. Guests will include pupils from Thurso High School and the nearby Miller Academy Primary School.

Councillor Rosie was instrumental in persuading the Council to replace the Mall Bridge.

He said:  “I am delighted the Council so promptly agreed to replace this important bridge, which re-establishes a much cherished walk in one of the most beautiful and scenic areas of Scotland.” 

Valued at £250,000, the bridge will have a single span of over 36 metres.
Design of the new structure has been by consulting engineer Arch Henderson LLP and the contract for its construction has been completed by McGregor Construction (Highlands) Ltd. The steel superstructure of the new bridge was fabricated and galvanized off site, for erection on completion of abutment supports on either bank of the river.

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