Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee, cut the ribbon at the A836 Naver Bridge Replacement development. 

The completed infrastructure upgrade project near Bettyhill has seen the replacement of the single-track, wrought iron plate girder bridge, dating back to the 1880s, with a modern transport link suitable for modern use. 

Funded by the Highland Council’s capital budget, the new bridge presents improvements at a historic bottleneck on the North Coast 500 route.

Delivered through The Highland Council’s Highland Investment Plan, the overall project cost of the development was £15 million. 

Ken Gowans, chair of Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee, said: “Today is a significant day for the local community, for the wider North Coast, and for everyone who relies on this important route.

“The council’s investment demonstrates our commitment to communities across Highland, both rural and urban, and ensuring that vital infrastructure continues to support economic growth, connectivity and resilience for generations to come.”

Wills Bros Civil Engineering carried out the works on behalf of The Highland Council.

Council officers and design team staff planned, managed and oversaw the project, with support also being provided by consultant Fairhurst.

Local suppliers and subcontractors also played a key role in the delivery of the project. 

Jim Johnston, on behalf of the Bettyhill, Altnahara and Strathnaver Community, said: “We are pleased the community now has access to a much more modern and suitable facility to meet local needs and to handle the increased traffic flow that has arisen from the NC 500.”

Councillor Hugh Morrison, a member for North, West and Central Sutherland, said: “This new bridge will serve the community for generations to come and represents a major improvement for everyone who travels this route.”

Jonathan Wills, director, Wills Bros said: “Delivering a project in such a stunning but environmentally sensitive location has brought its challenges, both from an engineering and environmental perspective…

“The bridge will be an important addition for the local community and for the many visitors who come to enjoy this beautiful part of the Highlands …”

The contractors, Wills Brothers Civil Engineering, worked closely with the local community throughout the building process. 

Site visits for schoolchildren to provide an insight into the engineering, design and construction process formed part of efforts to boost engagement. 

Additional enhancements have also been carried out, such as the WBCEL team installing a new footbridge to Farr Beach, as part of a project spearheaded by the Bettyhill, Altnahara and Strathnaver Community Council.