A new bridge over the Allt Mòr (Aultmore) Burn in Nethy Bridge was officially opened on Friday, marking the final milestone in a project that has been more than a decade in the making.

The opening ceremony brought together local residents, representatives from the Nethy Bridge and Vicinity Community Council, Explore Abernethy, ACT Heritage Works and the Cairngorms National Park Authority to celebrate the restoration of a much-valued community asset.

The original bridge had deteriorated over many years and was deemed unsafe. Its closure in 2012 removed an important connection within the village, affecting access to the community path network, Abernethy Old Kirk, Abernethy primary school and nearby woodland.

Recognising the importance of the route, the Nethy Bridge and Vicinity Community Council, in conjunction with Explore Abernethy, led a sustained effort to secure support for its replacement. Funding of £56,000 from the Cairngorms National Park Authority enabled the project to proceed, with Highland-based specialists ACT Heritage Works appointed to construct the new bridge. The new bridge was designed in 2020 by the late Doctor Geoff Freedman.

Sandy McCook, Chairman of the Nethy Bridge and Vicinity Community Council, said: “This bridge had become unsafe and dilapidated over many years, and its closure was keenly felt throughout the village. It holds great significance for many people in Nethy Bridge.

“I remember walking across it as a child with classmates on our way from school to the local church, and I am sure many others have similar memories. The bridge has long been an important crossing over the burn and a valued part of village life.

“I would also like to recognise the superb quality of work delivered by ACT Heritage Works. Their experience and craftsmanship have resulted in a bridge that will serve the community for generations to come.”

Sandy Bremner, Convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority, officially opened the bridge on Friday morning.

He said: “Working together, this incredible community and the Park Authority have restored a vital asset which I hope people will enjoy for many decades to come. I’d like to pay tribute to the Nethy Bridge community, who have been tireless in their campaign to bring back this route for residents and visitors alike.”

Gavin Miles, Director of Planning and Place at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “We are delighted to have supported the Nethy Bridge and Vicinity Community Council in delivering this important project. The new bridge restores a historically significant route that continues to play a valuable role in everyday life within the village.

“This achievement reflects many years of dedication and persistence from the community council, and it is wonderful to see this route being used once again.”