Official opening for new Bracklinn Bridge

The replacement bridge over the Falls was declared open by Dr Heather Reid, Convener of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, who untied a bow made from recycled ribbon that stretched across the bridge.

Work to install a replacement Bracklinn Bridge was completed earlier this month, providing locals and visitors with a safe place to view the spectacular Bracklinn Falls and a means to complete the full Bracklinn Falls Circuit route once again.

It is the latest ‘Bracklinn Bridge’ to be built across the River Keltie at the Falls. According to Callander Heritage Society, the first ever bridge to span the gorge at Bracklinn consisted of two logs, covered with branches and overlaid with turf.

The new bridge is made from ‘weathering’ steel which will develop over the next few months and gives it its distinctive rusty colour. The material was selected due to its longevity – giving up to 120 years design life – and the bridge is rated as highly sustainable due to the efficient design and use of materials.

Dr Heather Reid, Convener of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “Bracklinn Falls is a beautiful place and I am delighted to see a robust, sustainable bridge in place that will ensure the people of Callander, and visitors to the area, can enjoy the location for many years to come.

“Replacing a bridge in an environmentally sensitive location like this is not an easy task. The design and construction of the replacement bridge required a bespoke solution, which responded to the unique environment at Bracklinn Falls and the challenges in getting access through the ancient woodland and over the Keltie Water.

“It is fantastic to see projects such as this completed as part of the Park Authority’s new National Park Place Programme, which brings a focus on the Park’s visitor infrastructure. I look forward to seeing how it is enjoyed in the years to come by the local community and visitors to this special place.”

A recent upgrade to the path connecting Callander town centre, Callander Crags and Bracklinn Falls makes it easier for visitors to park in Callander and walk to the Falls from there. A new information panel sharing the history and culture of the area is also being produced for Bracklinn Falls, in conjunction with Callander Heritage Society and Cambusmore Estate.