A popular Perthshire footbridge which was controversially closed over safety fears could soon be re-opened.
The so-called Shaky Bridge near Comrie was put out-of-action after concerns were raised about the state of a huge sycamore tree which supports it.
The move has been criticised by walkers, who went as far as to install a hoax sign claiming the bridge was shut because “some numpty at the council found a screw loose and panicked.”
It was feared that the 38-year-old crossing could be shut for good.
However, a new study has triggered hopes that the bridge could be repaired and re-opened.
An engineer’s assessment commissioned by Perth and Kinross Council suggests that work could be carried out to address the most pressing issues, allowing the bridge to be used again.
Sandra McRitchie, chair of Comrie Community Council, gave local SNP candidate Roseanna Cunningham a tour of site.
Ms Cunningham said: “It is right and proper that steps are taken to ensure public safety, but I am very conscious that there is a lot of concern that the council might be acting in an over-cautious manner in relation to the bridge repair.
“I understand that the council have now received their engineer’s report on the bridge and that there is a possibility of a repair that can be carried out to address the immediate problem so that the bridge can be brought back into use while investigations are made into a longer term solution.”
She added: “I very much hope that will be the case and that this repair can be carried out very soon.
“I certainly want to see the Shaky Bridge re-opened to the public as quickly as possible and I know for sure that everyone in Comrie wants that to happen too.”
Ms Cunningham said: “It is the fact that one side of the bridge is attached to a tree and not a concrete plinth that gives the bridge some of its charm and it would be a great shame to lose that.”
A council spokeswoman said: “We are currently discussing the repair with the relevant suppliers and contractors and if successful, should allow us to reopen the bridge once the works are implemented. As soon as we know if this is feasible and the likely timescales, a further update will be issued.”
She added: “We are also looking at the longer term solutions in the report, including the future of the tree. We will consult the community on that in due course, once we have clear options and estimated costs, as it is highly likely that this will need to be a partnership project involving the community, landowners and Council to make it happen.’
