Fife Council has confirmed the Maitland Street Bridge in Leven is to be reconstructed.

The project is part of a programme to strengthen and replace structurally weak bridges.

The bridge was first structurally assessed a number of years ago and found to be only capable of carrying a three-tonne vehicle.

However, in an effort to avoid a weight restriction, a temporary propping arrangement was introduced below the bridge. The bridge was then placed in the bridge replacement/strengthening programme.

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The new bridge will be designed to modern standards and will carry full highway loading. The new footways and parapets will be very similar in width and appearance to the existing structure.

The design for the new bridge was completed in 2009, but a lack of funding among other priorities, meant the project did not progress. Funding is now in place for the scheme for the next financial year, with construction planned for summer 2013.

(JP)