The report to the local authority’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee highlighted the scale of the council’s responsibility for bridges, culverts, retaining walls, and associated structures on the public road network, and sets out plans for future investment under the Roads and Infrastructure Capital Programme.

Chair of the committee, Councillor Ken Gowans, said: “Maintaining safe and reliable road infrastructure is a priority for Highland Council. While funding challenges remain, these decisions ensure that resources are targeted where they are most needed to keep communities connected and safeguard essential routes.”

Key points approved by members include:

• Recognition of the current inspection programme and bridge stock condition indicators.
• Acknowledgement of the risks associated with ageing infrastructure and limited funding.
• Approval of updates to major bridge projects and prioritised schemes.
• Acceptance that, due to funding constraints, some structures will enter a ‘managed decline’ process, leading to eventual closure.

The council’s current five-year Capital Programme (2024/25 to 2028/29) allocates £21.091 million for major bridge schemes, with an additional £650,000 for bridges, retaining walls, and culverts in 2025/26. Despite this investment, the backlog of work remains significant, with over £10.5m in smaller schemes and £102.5m in major projects identified.

Major projects currently underway include:

• A836 Naver Bridge Replacement – Construction began in July 2024 and 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 or replacement will require additional funding.
• Preparatory works for Bonar Bridge repainting, Ness Bridge remediation, and feasibility studies for Strathcarron Bridge are also in progress.

Due to financial pressures, two structures – Spey Bridge at Cromdale and Slochd Cottages Railway Bridge near Carrbridge – will be placed into managed decline.

The council also plans to invest up to £0.5m to replenish its emergency bridge stock, ensuring resilience in the event of unexpected failures.

Members also agreed to the presentation of an updated appendix 1.1 of the lifeline bridges on the list to the next committee meeting and indicate on future lists presented to committee those structures that are lifeline.