Views sought on plan to bridge burn on walking trail in Sutherland

Residents in East Sutherland are being asked for their views on a proposal to build a bridge over the Loth burn, which runs into the sea between Brora and Helmsdale.

The suggestion has come from the Association of Northern Trails Scotland (ANTS) which maintains and manages the John O’Groats Trail.

The 147-mile walking trail follows a coastal route from Inverness to John O’Groats in designated stages. The Loth Burn is encountered in stage 7 - Brora to Helmsdale.

Rising on the western slopes of Beinn Mhealaich, the burn, which is three to four metres wide, flows for five miles through Glen Loth and Lothbeg, and under the railway line before entering the North Sea at Lothbeg Point.

John O' Groats trail manager Kenneth McElroy said: “The Association of Northern Trails Scotland is seeking local community feedback on a proposition to construct a bridge over the Loth Burn.

This burn, when in spate and the tide is in, can present a difficult obstacle for walkers on the John O'Groats Trail.

“ANTS, therefore, wish to construct a bridge which would span the burn, and ensure that walkers were able to cross the bridge safely.

“The bridge would serve to link up the communities of Helmsdale and Brora, and so it is designed to improve access for locals too - thereby providing a slew of mental and physical health benefits associated with increased walking opportunities.”

Mr McElroy added: “With this in mind, we are hoping to demonstrate community support for such a project, and so we would be so grateful if people were able to fill out a survey."

To access the short survey, which has only four questions and a space for comment, click here.

Social media users have already expressed their support of the bridge building proposal.

Jacquie Aitken, heritage officer at Timespan Museum and Arts Centre, Helmsdale, posted: "I am very supportive of this proposal to provide access across Loth burn. I frequently walk the Brora to Helmsdale coastal route, and the burn is a major obstacle even if it isn't in spate.

"I see many more people using the route since the JOGT started to promote it, and it would benefit local people and trail users."

And Lorna Johnston posted: "I too found it very challenging to cross in spate, so a bridge would be very beneficial to anyone using the trail."

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