The Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee has approved a comprehensive report on the condition of its road bridge stock, inspection regime, and future investment plans under the Roads and Infrastructure Capital Programme.

The report highlights the Council's vast responsibility for bridges, culverts, retaining walls, and associated road structures across the region.

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Committee, stressed the priority of maintaining safe and reliable infrastructure, stating that the decisions ensure resources are "targeted where they are most needed to keep communities connected".

Despite an allocated £21.091 million for major bridge schemes and an additional £650,000 for other structures in the current five-year Capital Programme (2024/25 to 2028/29), the backlog of required work remains significant:

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• Smaller Schemes Backlog: Over £10.5 million

• Major Projects Backlog: Over £102.5 million

Due to limited funding, the committee accepted that some structures will enter a "managed decline" process, leading to eventual closure. Two specific structures—Spey Bridge at Cromdale and Slochd Cottages Railway Bridge near Carrbridge—will be placed into this category.

Major Projects Underway

Members approved updates to several major projects, including:

• A836 Naver Bridge Replacement: Construction is progressing well, with completion expected in early 2026.

• Infirmary Bridge Repairs: Emergency works have reopened the bridge following a recent failure, but further refurbishment requires additional funding.

• Preparatory Works: Studies are in progress for Bonar Bridge repainting, Ness Bridge remediation, and a feasibility study for Strathcarron Bridge.

The Council also plans to invest up to £0.5 million to replenish its emergency bridge stock to enhance resilience against unexpected failures. Furthermore, the Council committed to identifying and marking "lifeline bridges" in future reports presented to the committee.