Fion Construction has won a contract to develop a new bridge over the River Nevis in the Highlands.

The new bridge will replace the ageing structure and work is scheduled to begin on Monday, 31 October.

Dingwall-based consulting engineers, Wallace Stone, have worked with the local authority and other stakeholders to develop designs for the new bridge, which will be located closer to the visitor centre.

Other features of the 16-week scheme includes upgrading the existing bridge at the Youth Hostel as well as the riverside path between the visitor centre and youth hostel to provide an all-abilities walk. Around £35,000 is also being invested to refurbish the visitor centre which will provide new and informative displays including vital mountain safety information for those venturing to the summit of Ben Nevis.

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The project is being delivered in partnership with the council and Nevis Landscape Partnership, with funding provided by Heritage Lottery Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Rural Development Programme, Sport Scotland and the local authority.

Cllr Audrey Sinclair said: "Ben Nevis, as the UK's highest mountain, attracts thousands of visitors to Lochaber 12 months of the year so it is important that we provide people with the best and safest experience possible. These improvement works will enable a far wider range of visitors to enjoy the lower-level scenery and splendour of the glen and, at the same time, provide essential safety information and guidance for anyone climbing higher in the Nevis Range."

(LM/MH)