SCOTTISH Borders Council has secured £249,000 in funding to support restoration of the almost 200-years-old Kalemouth Suspension Bridge.
The crossing is one of the earliest examples of a wrought iron chain suspension bridge and one of the last of its kind in Scotland. Its importance has been underlined with the Council securing £249,999 of support for restoration plans from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Caroline Clark, The National Lottery Heritage Fund director for Scotland, said, “Kalemouth Suspension Bridge is a magnificent piece of engineering and serves both as an important crossing for walkers and cyclists, and as a landmark and monument to local heritage.
“Thanks to National Lottery players, Heritage Fund investment will support the project with essential restoration work and new interpretation panels to share the story and significance of the bridge.”
Designed by Captain Samuel Brown and built in around 1835, the A-listed bridge spans the River Teviot four miles south of Kelso. Due to its age and the condition of the structure it closed to vehicles in 2020.
In addition to historic value we see a continuing important role for it as a crossing point supporting sustainable transport options such as cycling, wheeling and walking.
Councillor John Greenwell, Scottish Borders Council executive member for roads and public spaces, added, “This is an exciting new step in realising the important aspiration of the Council and the local community to see the bridge restored.
“With this support now in place, we can continue to move the project forward and work through the remaining detailed planning and funding stages needed to safeguard the bridge’s future.”
