A bridge which leads to Glen Etive is to be removed by Argyll and Bute Council because of concerns it will collapse.

River bank erosion at Clashgour Bridge, Bridge of Orchy, has become so severe over the last few months that there are fears the bridge may be swept away.

The Council has said it recognises that this area is popular for both walkers and cyclists, and have met with Scottish Natural Heritage on a number of occasions to try and find a solution to the problem.

Some work was carried out to bridge in 2005 but the Allt Ghabhar river which runs under it has continued to undermine its stability and it is felt that the only course of action is to remove the bridge to prevent it collapsing like the previous bridge did.

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An engineering appraisal was carried out which determined that there would be a considerable cost associated with the necessary repairs required to stabilise the bank but due to the large amount of run off from the nearby hills which can occur during the winter months, even this could not be guaranteed to safeguard the bridge. This cost was considered to be unaffordable especially if it may not be a long term solution.

After consultation with various bodies such as the Garrion Ramblers, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Rights of Way Society and The Scottish Mountaineering Council, it has been agreed that the removal of the bridge is to be carried out with the permission of the landowner.

Although the river can still be crossed in normal circumstances, it can be difficult in spate conditions. There is, however, a bridge further north at Clashgour farm which may be an option during these spate conditions.

(GK/JM)