Enormous precast beams are being delivered to the north coast this week and next, as Highland Council’s multimillion-pound Naver Bridge construction project, which began 14 months ago, enters a significant new phase.
A 500-tonne crane arrived on site on Monday, September 29 and has been rigged on the east platform of the new bridge in preparation for the arrival of the 30 beams.
Each beam measures 21.5 metres in length and weighs 23 tonnes. If laid end to end, the beams would cover half of Sutherland’s Torrisdale Bay.
Drivers have been warned to expect disruption as the beams, which are being transported from Cairnryan in Dumfries and Galloway, to Glasgow and then along the A9, to the site.
Councillor Ken Gowans, the chairman of the economy and infrastructure committee, said he was delighted to see the Naver Bridge project taking shape.
He said: “This vital transport link is a major north coast project which demonstrates our commitment to improving the infrastructure in rural Highland areas.
“The ongoing works are progressing well and huge credit must go to the contractors and council staff who have overseen all construction work on this key development to date.”
The new 65-metre-long prestressed concrete bridge is being constructed immediately upstream of the existing 144-year-old Naver Bridge, and the work includes realigning the approach road.
The bridge is considered a vital transport link because the only alternative route is a 64-mile detour via Strathnaver and Strath Hallandale.
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Since starting work on the project in August 2024, Motherwall-based contractors Wills Bros Civil Engineering Ltd. have completed all the required work in the river itself, including the piling work for the bridge foundations, the abutments and the pier.
A Highland Council spokesperson said that 16 precast beams were due to be delivered in eight trucks yesterday and today. Ten of these will be installed on the west span and six on the central span.
A further 14 precast beams are scheduled for delivery in seven trucks on Wednesday and Thursday, October 8-9. These will be installed on the central and east spans.
The spokesperson said: “Please be advised that minor traffic disruptions may occur along the Skelpick Road during the beam delivery. Every effort will be made to minimise these impacts and ensure safe and efficient operations.
“We would like to extend our sincere appreciation for the ongoing support and patience shown by local residents and stakeholders from the beginning of this project. Your continued cooperation is invaluable as we progress.”
The spokesperson continued: “Works are planned to continue throughout the year. Bridge construction, utility diversion, road construction, and landscaping are due to be completed and open to traffic by summer 2026.
“Demolition of the existing bridge structure is scheduled for November 2026, during the in-river working window, enabling full project completion by December 2026.”
