Cardross Bridge, an essential rural river crossing linking Arnprior and Port of Menteith, has had its long-term future secured following the completion of comprehensive and intricate improvement works. Stirling Council invested £1.2 million into repairing and strengthening the 18th-century Category B Listed structure, which carries the B8034 over the River Forth.

The extensive project, which began with a full road closure of the B8034 in September 2024, saw its timeline extended from six to ten months. This extension became necessary after additional ecological protections were identified, alongside further essential repairs discovered during the construction phase. Regular updates were provided to community councils and local businesses throughout the duration of the works, including both in-person and online meetings.

Work on the historic bridge required Listed Building Consent and involved a detailed scope of repairs. This included the careful removal and rebuilding of the bridge walls, a complete repointing of the stone using traditional materials, the repair of existing cracks, and the installation of a new bridge deck. Additionally, measures were implemented to safeguard the bridge against future river erosion.

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The bridge fully reopened to traffic on Friday, 20 June 2025. Further finishing work on the carriageway is planned for a later date, to be carried out over several nights. The exact timing for this final phase will be decided following feedback from the local community, aiming to minimise any further inconvenience.

Complex Project Challenges Addressed

Councillor Jen Preston, Convener of Stirling Council's Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee, highlighted the significance of the undertaking. "These essential works will safeguard the future of this important and historical river crossing for many years, which is why it was prioritised for this major investment," she said.

"Repairing and strengthening a bridge that dates back to 1774 was already a complex project, but further challenges were uncovered during the works which meant the structure had to stay closed for longer," Cllr Preston added. She acknowledged the impact on local residents and businesses: "There has been a long period of disruption for the community during the works and I would like to thank all local residents and businesses for their patience and and understanding."

Stirling Council's road network represents its largest community asset, spanning over 1,000 kilometres across a vast geographical area.

Councillor Preston concluded by emphasising the council's broader commitment: "Completing significant projects such as Cardross Bridge underlines our commitment to maintain and upgrade our vast network of roads and footways – this keeps our communities moving, supports economic growth and delivers wider benefits for the people of Stirling."