A new bridge that will link local communities in Falkirk has opened to the public.

Work on the £350,000 Dorrator Bridge has been completed and will replace the original historic swing bridge crossing which initially opened in 1893.

The distinct lime green structure of the new bridge will provide improved accessibility and increased opportunities for active travel by both foot and bicycle, and will offer a high-quality north to south connection for pedestrians and cyclists.

The project was developed by Falkirk Council in partnership with Central Scotland Green Network Trust (CSGNT) and Communities Along The Carron Association, with the aim of improving connectivity for local residents to recreational and health facilities, public transport, educational establishments, places of work and greenspace areas such as The HELIX.

The construction of the bridge is also part of a wider programme of infrastructure improvement works which addresses the most significant missing links in the six mile-long Carron Loop path network. The path network connects the communities of Bainsford, Camelon, Larbert, Mungal and Stenhousemuir.

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In addition to the new bridge, a 700-metre path network, designed by CSGNT, has been created to complement the structure, with a 130-metre long raised walkway that links Camelon Playing Fields to a path through Camelon Cemetery.

In total, Dorrator Bridge and the improved access routes cost around £580,000 to complete. The scheme was funded by Falkirk Council, Sustrans Scotland, Developer Contributions and Falkirk Environment Trust.

Councillor Dr Craig R Martin, spokesperson for the Environment at Falkirk Council, said: "The new bridge and path network will bring real benefits for the communities around the Carron with improved access to walking and cycling facilities. There are also excellent links to the wider path network which now connects a number of local communities while also opening up access to greenspace including the Helix."

Michael Ewart, Development Officer at Central Scotland Green Network Trust, added: "The CSGNT supports a wide range of environmental access enhancements across the central belt. This high quality bridge and path network offers a range of health, societal, economic and environmental benefits by providing local communities with more opportunities for active travel, recreation and access to areas of employment, and it's fantastic to see the project now complete."

Paul Downie, Community Links Project Officer at Sustrans, commented: "The completion of this project opens up a number of opportunities for individuals to travel actively on a safe traffic-free route. The high quality path will be welcomed by walkers and cyclists alike and will be well used by the local community. The new bridge looks fantastic and we look forward to working with the team at Central Scotland Green Network Trust on phase two of this project and many more."

(JP/CD)