Construction work on the A836 Naver Bridge replacement project, located near Bettyhill on the North Coast 500, has achieved a critical structural milestone with the completion of the precast bridge beam installation.

This phase marks a significant step forward in the scheme being undertaken by contractors Wills Bros Civil Engineering on behalf of The Highland Council.

The installation saw 30 individual precast bridge beams, each measuring over 21 metres in length and weighing approximately 23 tonnes, lifted into position. The complex operation was carried out in two phases using a 500-tonne crane.

Alongside the major engineering achievement, Wills Bros hosted a group of pupils from Farr High School on site. The visit provided 13 students and two teachers with a unique, real-world insight into bridge construction and the potential for careers in civil engineering. The pupils were given a presentation on the bridge design and site safety before viewing the newly installed beams and the crane from a safe viewing area.

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Wills Bros Site Engineer, Hamza Chaudhary, commented on the importance of the educational visit: "It was brilliant to have the pupils on site during such an exciting phase of the project.

"Seeing the bridge take shape while inspiring young people to think about engineering careers really brings home the impact of what we do, both for local communities and future generations."

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of The Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee, welcomed the milestone and the community engagement:

"I am delighted that local school children have had the opportunity to see this exciting project taking shape, and thanks go to contractors and our council staff for their work in welcoming the young visitors.

"This vital transport link is a major north coast project which demonstrates our commitment to improving the infrastructure in rural areas of Highland."

The visit was facilitated by Community Liaison Officer, Angela Newlands and Site Administrator, Isobel MacLeod, whose son, a former pupil of Farr High School, is now a Civil Engineer.