Controversial Ruthven Bridge works underway
Vulnerable Badenoch residents could face delays to vital services due to controversial bridge works that started this week.
Despite complaints from local GPs, business owners and community leaders, Highland Council has gone ahead with its £1 million replacement of Ruthven Bridge in the climax of the tourist season.
Kingussie doctors have said the work will cause difficulties for health workers visiting elderly and vulnerable patients who require daily care, leading to knock-on effects within the community.
Concerns over emergency response times have also been raised and tourism businesses on the B970 have repeatedly expressed their frustration at the timing of the bridge work.
Most drivers now face a round trip of nearly 30 miles via Kincraig to avoid the bridge, but HGVs unable to use the 17-tonne limit Spey Bridge in the village have to make a 60-mile detour by Aviemore.
Questions have also been raised over the timescale of the work, with the council claiming the crossing will reopen on September 11 while Transport Scotland says it will be out of action until October 2.
Highland Council has refused to budge, stating that the work is urgent.
Residents in Drumguish, Inveruglas and Insh are also served via Ruthven Bridge.
