Work will start next Monday on a replacement footbridge which will make a scenic stretch of the River Don suitable for pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users.
The new Far Burn Bridge will complete a 4km continuous section of an all-abilities path and also provides a long-distance route into Aberdeenshire, via the old railway line route the Formartine and Buchan Way which is part of the Nation Cycle Route network.
The bridge will be 14m in span which will ensure the path is suitable for wheelchair users and increase the flood capacity of the burn which it crosses.
The new structure will provide health and environmental benefits by encouraging people to walk and cycle along the river setting rather than using their cars.
This project augments the existing path network in Aberdeen and will provide an opportunity for people to enjoy the attractive setting and wildlife of the River Don.
The bridge will have a hardwood timber decking and rails in keeping with the natural surroundings, with steel supports and rested on stone baskets.
The path adjoining the bridge will be a 3m wide sealed surface path.
The work is scheduled to be carried out until October 11 by CR Contracting Ltd. The bridge is being made off-site and will likely be put together in sections which will mean that the path is closed for the duration of the works.
A signed diversion is in place during the works, and the contractor has put out signs on site advising of the path closure. This time of year has been chosen for the construction in order to avoid the bird nesting season.
The project is being funded by the cycling charity Sustrans, through its Community Links programme, which supports projects which make towns and cities friendlier and safer places for people to walk and cycle.
