Work on replacing the “busiest wee bridge in Moray” with a new £418,000 structure should start soon.
The new footbridge on the western outskirts of Cullen is due to open in July.
It will be located 16ft upstream from the existing 90-year-old pedestrian crossing at Seatown, over the Burn of Cullen.
The replacement bridge will be approximately 3ft higher than the current one, to reduce the risk of flooding at high tide.
As the only safe pedestrian walkway between Seatown and the beach car park and golf club, Cullen residents reckon it must be the most heavily used in the region.
Keith and Cullen councillor Ron Shepherd said the community was excited by the start of the long overdue project.
Mr Shepherd said: “Everyone in Cullen is delighted to see some progress being made.
“I’m glad work is finally getting going, as the old bridge really isn’t fit for purpose and I’ll be relieved when it’s replaced.
“It does seem to be steady enough, but it’s in such a state it looks like it could collapse.”
The existing bridge was built by Cullen Town Council nearly a century ago, and has fallen into disrepair in recent years.
It will remain in use until work on the replacement is completed this summer, and will then be demolished.
Balfour Beatty Construction Services will build the new crossing, which will feature a steel superstructure and timber decking.
The firm will also instal support structures and divert water pipes and electricity cables as work on the project progresses.
