Work will start to repair a much-missed footbridge on the Great Glen Way as soon as funding is confirmed, it has been revealed.
The bridge over the River Lochy has been closed for more than a year to anyone unable to tackle 26 steep steps.
Known as Soldiers’ Bridge because it was built by the Army as a goodwill gesture, it also forms part of the official Inverness to Oban cycle route.
And the structure at Inverlochy provides an important link between Fort William and the villages of Caol and Lochyside in Lochaber.
Last summer Highland Council closed the ramp at the northern end of the bridge for safety reasons after damage was reported to its supports.
It has remained closed ever since to the frustration of both locals and visitors – especially wheelchair users, parents with buggies, cyclists and anyone unable to climb the steps.
The alternative route involves walking along main roads and adds almost a mile to the journey.
Lochaber Transport Forum has been calling for the bridge to be repaired for some time.
Benny MacDonald, development worker for the group, said: “It is very much a short cut between Fort William and Caol.
“It was to keep people off the railway. Before it was built people used to use the railway.
“It fell into disrepair and was closed.
“It has been an issue that has been going on for some time now.
“It was used regularly and people are missing it. The issue just seems to be dragging on a bit. We are pushing to get it done as soon as possible.”
Councillor Brian Murphy, who attends the forum meetings, was able to get an update for Highland Council. He said: “Sustrans is funding the work. The tender documents are ready to go out as soon as we get that confirmation of the funding.
“The bridge is very well used by people walking back and forwards between Fort William and Caol, a lot of high school pupils use it.
“It has absolutely been missed.”
Highland Council will contract someone to remove the old ramp and replace it. The firm will also need to remove and replace the existing decking and handrails on the footbridge.
It is hoped the work, which is expected to cost around £200,000, will be started in December of this year.