A structural assessment of Aboyne Bridge has confirmed Aberdeenshire Council’s initial fears that the structure is currently not strong enough to carry vehicles.
The crossing, which is currently closed to traffic, carries the B968 Bridgeview Road over the River Dee.
Built between 1938 and 1940, the seven-span reinforced concrete bridge – which spans 151 metres – has deteriorated ‘significantly’, largely due to its age and the construction techniques of the 1930s.
The recent assessment confirmed that the reinforced concrete bridge decking, on which the road and footways rest, has no capacity to safely carry motorised vehicles. With the main span being relatively unique, due to its three concrete hinges, the assessment has identified that the hinge at the centre of the span is also structurally weak.
Aberdeenshire Council said, “In essence, the survey has confirmed our initial fears when the road was closed last year, that it is not currently strong enough to carry vehicles and other faults have been identified.
“Our bridges team are working with consultants to look at options for the repair or strengthening of the bridge in order to make it available to some level of motorised traffic in the future – possibly under a weight restriction.
“We will have the findings in November and, if an appropriate repair can be identified, we will seek approval to proceed to the design phase.
“We are confident active travel will be able to continue on the bridge, although this remains under regular review.”
