Official opening of new footbridge at popular beauty spot

Primary 5 pupils from Strathpeffer Primary and members of a local walking group joined representatives from The Highland Council and Forestry Commission Scotland to officially open the new suspension footbridge at Rogie Falls.

A routine inspection of the old 1970s suspension bridge showed that major work was needed to refurbish it if public access was to be maintained.  Finding that it was better value to replace rather than refurbish the structure, the Council, which owns the bridge, and Forestry Commission Scotland which manages the surrounding woodland worked in partnership on a project to design and install a replacement at a cost of £123,000. 

Forestry Commission engineers carried out the design work and funding came from the Council’s capital programme.  In March this year McGregor Construction (Highland) Ltd was awarded the contract and work to construct the new steel and timber footbridge, which has a main span of 24 metres, was completed before the start of the main tourist season.

Speaking after getting birthday boy Louis Macpherson and Nicole Nicol to help him cut a ribbon to officially open the bridge, Chairman of the Council’s Planning, Environment and Development Committee, Councillor Thomas Prag said: “I am delighted this new bridge still has the thrill of crossing the River Blackwater that the old suspension bridge had and is in keeping with the special character of this popular beauty spot. My family and I have visited many times over the years, especially when my children were young and crossing the “bouncy bridge” was always a highlight.

“Encouraging more people to get outdoors to discover the splendour of our environment brings health benefits and also gives an important boost economically to the area so I am glad the new bridge is in place and I am sure visitors and locals will make great use of it.”

Hazel MacLean, for the Commission’s team in North Highland, said:  “Over 65,000 people visit this popular spot each year to enjoy the fantastic view of Rogie Falls and to relax and unwind with a wander around the great network of paths that we’ve got through the woods.

“This upgrade work will help us to make this an even more attractive and welcoming spot for years to come.”