An historic Aberdeenshire crossing will be out of use for five months to allow a £300,000 revamp to take place.
The Polhollick Footbridge, west of Ballater, will close on Monday, May 18, for refurbishment.
It is not scheduled to reopen until October.
The B-listed bridge across the River Dee was built in 1892 and is a vital link for trekkers using the paths network in the Cairngorm National Park.
It forms part of the “seven bridges” walking trail which encompasses 17th-century Knock Castle and the Rivers Muick and Dee.
The white-washed crossing is considered a tourist draw and a popular local amenity for Deeside residents and has been in line for a facelift since 2012 when Aberdeenshire Council’s policy and resources committee approved the funding for repainting work, essential repairs and conservation.
A local authority spokeswoman said the work – which is being carried out by industrial service company, Gabre UK – would “safeguard its future”.
The council’s head of planning and building standards, Robert Gray, said: “Polhollick Footbridge is an iconic Victorian structure and a well-loved fixture of the Deeside landscape.
“This work will protect and secure the bridge for future generations to enjoy and will further encourage the local economy and tourism industry.
“Securing the funding for its renovation has not been an easy nor a quick task and Aberdeenshire Council would like to thank local residents for their understanding and patience throughout the planning process.”
The Dee is a special area of conservation and a number of consultations and surveys have been carried out to make sure the works meets the standards of Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency.