Temporary barriers have been installed at a deteriorating Mearns bridge.
Calls were made last year for urgent repairs to the Jubilee Bridge, the main route in and out of Inverbervie, which has fallen into a state of disrepair.
Councillors George Carr and Jeff Hutchison claimed in November that the bridge, which was refurbished less than a decade ago, was on the brink of major structural problems.
And a report by the authority’s roads consultant Amey has said the 656ft link will have to be replaced.
Aberdeenshire Council, which was urged to “bite the bullet” and apply for funding to replace the 83-year-old structure, has now installed temporary barriers amid concerns over movements within the parapets.
North-east MSP Liam Kerr has backed the calls for action to be taken.
He said: “I’m pleased to see the council acting quickly, now that everyone has seen the need for urgent work.
“The bridge has deteriorated rapidly and couldn’t be left any longer.
“I’m sure the public will be happy to see work begin and will indulge any minor delays this work may cause.”
The bridge, which was opened in 1935, was named in honour of the 25th year of the reign of King George V.
It was refurbished during a 40-week operation in 2008 and there is now a weight limit of 44 tonnes for vehicles.
The council has said it is exploring what long-term action can be taken to the bridge and is waiting for feedback from consultants on what the next steps should be.
