An inspection of a much-loved bridge in Moray has been commissioned to ensure it does not fall into disrepair.
For nearly a century the Spey Viaduct near Garmouth carried goods, including fish, from the area south by train in order to be sold.
Following the railway line’s closure in 1968, the 950ft structure has found a new role with walkers and cyclists enjoying the north-east coastline.
However, fears have been raised that without regular maintenance the River Spey crossing could be neglected.
Now Moray Council has agreed to carry out an inspection of the bridge during the next 15 months to establish whether any work is necessary.
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead said: “An inspection of the bridge is going to be good news for the community because we want to see this unique structure preserved for future generations.
“Once the inspection has been carried out then the next challenge will be securing funding for any necessary repairs – the council has indicated they would welcome any third-party grant from the lottery or similar bodies.
“There are sometimes questions over the ownership of some of our most iconic bridges and who is responsible for maintaining them for future generations so it’s good this will not happen here.”
Doubts surrounding the ownership another Speyside bridge at Craigellachie have created difficulties for campaigners trying to fund repairs to the crossing there.
Yesterday, rust could be seen on the massive structure at Garmouth while walkers and cyclists enjoyed the scenery from the route.
Fochabers Lhanbryde councillor David Bremner said the bridge has become a key part of community life for nearby villages.
He said: “I’m not sure if there’s been a youth in the area who has not walker right over the top of the arches at some point.
“It’s essential we look at its long-term future because it would be very easy for it to be forgotten and looked over for other things.
“It’s part of a national cycle route though and the Moray coastal trail so it’s well used and would be a big miss if it were to be closed if it fell into disrepair.”