Lossie Bridge – a short term fix?
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BOATS might be used to carry people to and from Lossiemouth's East Beach during next year's holiday season.
The idea has been mooted as a possible "short term fix" following the enforced closure of the wooden bridge which provides the only safe access to the beach.
Lossiemouth Community Development Trust has stated that, depending on where it is sited, a modern replacement bridge will cost between £500,000 and £700,000.
Currently the trust has received about £70,000 in donations, of which £50,000 came from the Beatrice Partnership Fund.
Rab Forbes, a volunteer with the development trust, was amongst those predicting that safety fears would see the closure of the 100-year-old bridge.
That prediction came true at the end of July when, following a sunny day during which 3800 people crossed the structure, it lurched to one side.
Mr Forbes said that the development trust has held meetings with Moray Council, the district's MP and MSP, four different bridge companies, Highland and Islands Enterprise as well as "numerous" other agencies.
He added: "We are continuing to explore all avenues to restore access to the east beach as soon as possible.
"In the the absence of extra funding it's unlikely that will happen before the summer of next year."
The 42nd annual Lossiemouth Raft Race is set to take place from 2pm this Sunday with only minor alterations.
Although the competing teams will pass under the bridge, spectators will not be able to watch the race from on top of it.
Superheroes will be the theme of the popular seaside event which last year raised £2400 for three chosen charities.
This year the bridge appeal has been added as a fourth beneficiary.
Donate to the appeal here
