The official opening of the new Naver Bridge crossing has taken place, marking the successful conclusion of a major Highland Council-led investment project in the Sutherland community.
Councillor Ken Gowans, chair of Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee, cut the ribbon at the A836 Naver Bridge Replacement Scheme.
Now completed, this major infrastructure upgrade scheme near Bettyhill replaces the single-track, wrought iron plate girder bridge, originally built in the 1880s, with a modern transport link fit for the 21st century.
The new bridge, which has been funded by the Highland Council’s capital budget, provides significant improvements at a historic bottleneck on the ever-popular North Coast 500 route.
The overall project cost of the scheme was £15 million, delivered through The Highland Council's Highland Investment Plan.
Cutting the ribbon – Cllr Ken Gowans, flanked by Jonathan Wills (left) and Jim Johnston (right) along with local school pupils
Ken Gowans, chair of Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee, said: “I am delighted to be in this beautiful and historic part of the Highlands to mark the official opening of the new Naver Bridge.
“Today is a significant day for the local community, for the wider North Coast, and for everyone who relies on this important route.
“The council’s investment demonstrates our commitment to communities across Highland, both rural and urban, and ensuring that vital infrastructure continues to support economic growth, connectivity and resilience for generations to come.”
In his speech to mark the opening Cllr Gowans paid tribute and extended thanks to all who has worked so hard to bring this project to completion, including:
- Wills Bros Civil Engineering, who delivered the works on behalf of The Highland Council.
- To the council officers and design team staff who have planned, managed and overseen the project from inception through to completion, with invaluable support from consultants Fairhurst.
- The local suppliers and subcontractors who all played a crucial role.
- And to the local residents, businesses and stakeholders for their patience, understanding and cooperation during the construction period.
Cllr Gowans said the contractor’s work had demonstrated that major infrastructure projects can be delivered while safeguarding the natural heritage that makes this area so special.
Jim Johnston, on behalf of the Bettyhill, Altnahara and Strathnaver Community, said: “We are delighted to see the bridge complete and to see traffic flowing across it.
“The old bridge dated back to the 1880s, but it had served its time. We are pleased the community now has access to a much more modern and suitable facility to meet local needs and to handle the increased traffic flow that has arisen from the NC 500.
“On behalf of the community council, I would like to thank everyone who has brought the project to its successful conclusion.”
Cllr Hugh Morrison, long serving member for North, West and Central Sutherland, said: "This new bridge will serve the community for generations to come and represents a major improvement for everyone who travels this route.
“The project team and contractors have worked hard to minimise disruption and engage positively with local people throughout the construction period.
“I am pleased that the scheme has not only delivered an important transport link but has also brought wider benefits to the local community.”
Jonathan Wills, Director, Wills Bros said: “Wills Bros are proud to see the new Naver Bridge officially open.
“Delivering a project in such a stunning but environmentally sensitive location has brought its challenges, both from an engineering and environmental perspective, and it’s a real credit to everyone involved.
“The bridge will be an important addition for the local community and for the many visitors who come to enjoy this beautiful part of the Highlands, and we’re proud to have played our part in delivering it.”
Throughout the build process contractors Wills Brothers Civil Engineering worked closely with the local community.
Engagement activity included site visits for school children, to give an insight into the engineering, design and construction process.
Wider community benefits were also delivered, including the WBCEL team installing a new footbridge to Farr Beach, as part of a project led by the Bettyhill, Altnahara and Strathnaver Community Council.
Notes to editors: The Highland Investment Plan is a £2.1 billion, 20-year capital investment programme to improve schools, roads and local infrastructure throughout the region. The plan is funded through a combination of borrowing and a 2% ring-fenced allocation of Council Tax revenue.