THE repair of a prominent Inverness bridge has been delayed due to a shortage in construction materials, the Highland Council has said.
The Infirmary Bridge, which spans the River Ness, was closed on health and safety grounds earlier this month (June) after decking panels were found to be showing distress.
The original panels were manufactured specifically for the bridge, however the local authority said that the previous supplier does not have the raw materials in stock to produce replacements.
As a result, alternative options are being looked into by the council, with the use of different materials to provide a temporary overlay across the decking panels being considered. However, the local authority said that these materials are also not available due to the national shortage in timber.
The Highland Council commented, “The council apologises for the inconvenience of the Infirmary Bridge closure and gives assurance that it is actively seeking materials for the bridge repairs. As a result of the impact of Covid-19 and the high demand nationally on DIY-related products for timber decking these delays are meanwhile however, outwith the council’s control.”
