Vandals who have broken through safety barriers on a Moray footbridge have been warned they risk burdening emergency services.
The crossing to Lossiemouth’s East Beach has been closed since summer last year amid concerns the 100-year-old structure is close to collapse.
Now it has emerged padlocks and chains used to secure fences blocking the footway were broken during the Easter weekend – just days after Moray Council issued a warning about using the bridge.
Today the authority said securing replacement equipment would likely take longer due to the current lockdown.
Meanwhile, police have been asked to step up patrols near the bridge to ensure there is no repeat of the damage.
Mike Mulholland, chairman of Lossiemouth Community Council, said: “If people are going to come along with bolt cutters then what are you going to do? They’re going to do it anyway regardless of what you have there.
“But I do feel there should be a look at a more permanent deterrent there. It’s a long-term closure and it’s a safety matter so I do think it’s quite important to make sure it’s secure.”
Studies done by the Lossiemouth Community Development Trust counted 4,000 people using the bridge on Good Friday last year.
However, this year the sands were deserted as locals obeyed lockdown and social distancing instructions from government while visitors stayed away.
Moray Council has warned that those who use the bridge risk a serious injury due to the frail condition of the ageing structure.
A spokesman said: “Everyone understands that the closure is deeply frustrating, especially on a holiday weekend but the bridge is unsafe – it’s as simple as that.
“Most are being responsible and avoiding using the bridge, but there’s always one or two that think they’re immune to injury and that public safety messages do not apply to them.
“Anyone choosing to ignore the warnings and barriers puts themselves at risk, and in the event of an accident places further burdens on the emergency services at this demanding time.”
The Scottish Government has already committed to funding a replacement for the bridge.
Moray Council has begun the search for a firm to design the new crossing amid hopes it will be completed next year.
