THE new Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge on Royal Deeside has been officially opened by King Charles.
Moxon and Arcadis designed the bridge, with Wills Bros Group leading the build on behalf of Aberdeenshire Council. The new structure has been named to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 – the year in which construction commenced.
His Majesty unveiled a commemorative plaque before meeting with those involved in the design and construction of the new bridge, local councillors, and community representatives.
The existing Grade A-listed Gairnshiel Bridge, built in the mid-1700s and which the new bridge replaces, was no longer suitable for modern day traffic and, with ‘ever-increasing’ volumes of vehicles and larger, heavier loads, the bridge had suffered ‘significant’ damage over many years. However, the ‘faithful old servant’ will be retained for use by non-motorised users.
The design of the new £3.8 million bridge responds to three key considerations: the river flood levels, the low alignment of the highway, and the desire to create a sculptural yet robust form, using locally sourced granite which responds to the natural formation of the glen while complementing the 18th Century structure.
Provost of Aberdeenshire, councillor Judy Whyte, said, “We were honoured to have His Majesty The King join us today to formally open the new Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge. There is no doubt that this new bridge will provide a far better and safer route both for local residents and the many thousands of visitors who use this route each year. This new crossing will take the strain of traffic away from the original Gairnshiel Bridge and will enable walkers and cyclists to continue to enjoy a journey over this historic structure for many years to come.”
Aberdeenshire Council leader, councillor Gillian Owen, added, “The formal opening of the Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge is the culmination of seven years’ hard work not only by our own officers and services, but by all the architects, designers, and engineers contracted to undertake this massive feat of engineering. I am very impressed by the design of the structure and the quality of workmanship throughout the project which will allow motorists and other road users to enjoy the many delights the area has to offer.”
