Safety concerns force closure of Forres bridge

The historic bridge, which dates back to 1889, has not passed its structural assessment so can no longer safely carry vehicular traffic. The bridge will remain open for pedestrians and cyclists, with permanent bollards installed to prevent vehicle access.

The upstream footbridge over the Mosset Burn will also close due to corrosion, while the southern footbridge will remain open and be monitored every three months.

The decision follows detailed engineering reviews and traffic monitoring carried out over several days on the bridge and surrounding roads. The studies found nearby routes can accommodate the additional traffic once the bridge is closed.

Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Marc Macrae, said: “Following a thorough structural assessment, we have determined that Lea Bridge can no longer carry vehicular traffic safely, and these measures, while unfortunate, are necessary to protect all users.”