Aberdeenshire Council has said the first phase of work to repair a partial collapse of Huntly Castle Bridge has been completed.

As a result, the bridge has reopened for non-vechicular use.

An initiative by the local authority and the local community will now be launched to secure funds to deliver the second phase of works. It is hoped this phase would commence early in 2015, allowing a full restoration of the structure to be possible.

Located next to Huntly Castle, the Category A-listed structure suffered serious structural damage in February 2009 when a large section of the downstream sidewall collapsed.

Work to repair the bridge started in January and the bridge had been closed to pedestrians for 12 weeks. The work consolidated a collapsed section, which was the start of a conservation plan, and involved stabilising the structure and removing a timber walkway constructed above the collapsed section which was supported on the original masonry arch. In addition, an inner modern structural wall has been constructed to allow the carriageway to be reinstated at its original level.

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With regards to phase two, the bridge will be restored to its original appearance, including matching masonry facing for the collapsed section and conservation of the other main elements of the structure, including the arch barrel and other side walls.

Phase 1 was jointly funded by Aberdeenshire Council, Historic Scotland and the Castle Hotel Huntly at a cost of £60,000. It is understood that once fully restored, the bridge will continue to be for non-motorised use only.

Peter Argyle, Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee, commented: "I'm pleased to see the first phase of works complete, not only progressing the conservation plan for the bridge, but also reopening it for use as part of Huntly's Core Path network in time for the summer.

"It is a popular and scenic circular walk used regularly by members of the public and tourists and it’s also of local historical significance.

"The bridge has a clear association with Huntly Castle, which itself is a major tourist attraction for the town and of national historical significance, so it is good to see this project move forward and I hope funding can soon be secured for phase two."

(JP)