"No go" warning on Tain bridge

A WARNING has been issued reminding Tain residents not to use the corroded Alexandra Bridge.

It has been shut for safety reasons due to severe corrosion and there is a real risk of its "sudden failure".

However, it appears members of the public have removed the closure signs and are continuing to use the unsafe structure.

This well used bridge, which is the responsibility of Tain Common Good, is also a category B listed building which has allowed access from Tain Links along the shore to Morrich since it was built in 1902.

There are issues of wear and tear and severe corrosion which mean that the bridge is now considered unsafe.

Closure signs have been put up but it appears that members of the public have removed the signs and continue to use the bridge. The closure signs are being replaced and the public urged to heed the warning they give.

The Highland Council’s chief structural engineer has emphasised that the corrosion is such that there is a real risk of a sudden and unexpected failure of the bridge.

Local councillor Fiona Robertson said, “We understand how much local people value the bridge and want to use it. However the repair issues are severe and it will take time to identify the funding needed. As the bridge is listed we will also need to consult with Historic Scotland. We understand how frustrating the time all this takes is but we would urge people to be patient, bear with us and above all, please do not use the bridge as it simply isn’t safe enough.”