SCA volunteer Access Advisors this week met with the architext's acting on behalf of the development of Taymouth estate to discuss some of the concerns about access currently, with particular reference to Chinese Bridge area. We looked at both the short term and long term. The plans have given the Architect a bit of headache and as things progress we hope you understand they are not blocking access although it may feel like that. There will be some work which restrict access as they need to do work which involves heavy machinery, and they will provide away round this. This is for everyone’s safety.

In the short term, later this month but maybe into 1st week of July, there will be some fencing erected starting approximately 30 upstream from Chinese bridge (the SEPA gauge and hut to give a visual picture for those familiar with river) and go downstream beyond bridge. This is to allow heavy machinery in to work. It is there to protect everyone and for everyone’s safety. This will be there for about 4 months. They hope less and it is only temporary!

This does not prevent you from getting out to portage the rapid if needed - it just makes it slightly further as you have to walk round fence which takes you in to a working area which works 6 days a week. Just put back where is suitable below bridge depending on water levels. There will also be a number on the fencing (24 hour) which if you are worried, stuck or concerned please use it. The security team are very pleasant and just doing the job asked of them and are very helpful. 4 number portage trolleys will be provided by the owners of the estate.

What it does do is restrict inspecting the rapid for those unfamiliar with this section of river or with a group. You will have less of an area to get out. It is not impossible - you will just have to walk a bit around fencing and with a lot of trees felled it is easier than you might think.

The Bridge itself is covered in scaffolding. This will remain covered in scaffold and will be closed for the longer term due to the construction, material, and age of bridge. We will update you on this once we have more information to hand. Nothing is going to change in the short term. Long term the bridge will be restored.

There will be other changes over time including new houses with a flood barrier on river right plus some possible changes to the Core Path network. Updates will be offered as they come to hand but these again will not affect you using the river.

The river is big enough for all the users. 

If you have any concerns or problems please fill in an online access issue.