Report backs bridge over Almond

Walkers at Cramond presently make a 1.5 mile detour

Plans for a new foot and cycle bridge across the River Almond at Cramond are being backed by a regional transport authority report.

South East Scotland Transport Partnership (Sestran) said the bridge would complete the Forth cycle route.

A report going to Sestran's board recommends building the structure.

At present, there is no direct coastal link between Queensferry and Cramond and walkers must make a 1.5 mile detour upstream.

A bridge would restore a link broken when the foot ferry service ended in 2001. It would also become an important part of the growing Round the Forth cycle route.

A preferred location for the bridge has been identified as being south of the Cramond boat club and north of the Salvesen Steps Russell Imrie Sestran Chairman

Sestran chairman Russell Imrie said the route was currently impossible for people with mobility problems and impractical for cyclists.

He said: "Cramond is an area of great natural beauty, which is why Sestran has been at pains to ensure that everyone's views are heard.

"Feedback from the public, local residents and other stakeholders has been overwhelmingly supportive of the construction of a foot and cycle bridge across the Almond.

"A preferred location for the bridge has been identified as being south of the Cramond boat club and north of the Salvesen Steps."

Mr Imrie said the location had the advantages of not disrupting boat movements and ensuring access by people with mobility problems and cyclists.

"It is also as close as possible to the sea shore, for the convenience of people who want to walk or cycle along the coast," he added.

If approved on Friday 18 May, the report will recommend Edinburgh City Council pursue the project.