A meeting is being held by Aberdeenshire Council tonight to discuss the deterioration of two road bridges in Strathdon.

The future of the Milltown of Towie Bridge and Glenkindie Bridge will be debated. Both bridges are in declining condition and have vehicular weight restrictions imposed on them.

The two structures are situated 2km apart and provide access for vehicles crossing the River Don.

Glenkindie Bridge is 133 years old and is suffering from extensive corrosion of its metal work. A 7.5 tonne gross vehicle weight restriction is in place.

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Corrosion of steel-reinforcing bars on the 89-year-old Milltown of Towie Bridge has led to the development of concrete spalling from the underside and edges.

This bridge is also restricted to 3 tonne gross vehicle weight.

The meeting is being held to inform the public of the issues relating to the condition of the bridges and to discuss the options available.

Aberdeenshire Council’s Head of Roads and Landscape Services, Philip McKay, said: "The meeting will be an opportunity to discuss the council’s recommendation that action should be focused on the re-decking of Glenkindie Bridge and seek feedback from local residents.

"Pending further assessment, it may be necessary in the near future to further restrict the Milltown of Towie Bridge to pedestrians and cyclists only. It is acknowledged that the loss of both bridges for vehicle use would have a significant impact on the local community with the resultant diversion being 12 miles via the A97 Buchaam Bridge further upstream."

(IT)