Stirling Council has approved additional funding of £1.5 million for essential works to two bridges in rural Stirling.

A Special Meeting of the Council backed proposals to utilise Council reserves to deliver essential structural improvements on both the Branshogle and Catter Burn bridges, which are currently closed.

Convenor of Stirling Council's Environment and Housing Committee, Councillor Jim Thomson, said: "These bridges are vital crossing points for communities, businesses and tourists and the work to progress designs for repairs are being progressed as a matter of urgency.

"I'd like to thank local residents for their patience with the repair process to the bridges. I appreciate the inconvenience to individuals and businesses who face significant diversions due to these closures, however, the damage to the bridges is extensive and has left them at risk of further collapse if repairs are not completed to the standard required."

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Vice Convenor, Councillor Danny Gibson: "The scale and scope of the work required to repair the damage to both bridges is significant. Council officers are working diligently to ensure that the work will be completed to the highest standard.

"I understand local frustration from those who are reliant on travelling these routes and thank everybody for their ongoing patience as we aim to complete these essential repair projects as soon as possible in line with the tendering and procurement processes."

• Branshogle Bridge

Branshogle Bridge suffered a partial parapet collapse following a period of heavy rainfall on 19th February of this year, resulting in its closure. Since the closure of the Branshogle Bridge, engineers have been working with stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, consultants and contractors to ascertain the most appropriate process to repair the bridge.

The Council are in the final stages of the tendering process and anticipate appointing a contractor shortly. Further community engagement sessions are planned to provide updates.

• Catter Burn Bridge

The parapet wall on Catter Burn Bridge on the A809 south of Croftamie collapsed on 30th September, resulting in the need to close the bridge as an essential safety measure. Engineers are currently assessing the extent of works required to be undertaken to repair the bridge, and community meetings are being arranged to discuss the works and the impact of the closures. Local diversions are in place.