THERE have been exciting developments at the Caledonian Railway in Brechin this spring, with the eagerly awaited arrival of a rare Victorian footbridge.

The erection of the bridge on March, 27 was the culmination of four years of work.

Dating back to 1895, it was put in place by the original Caledonian Railway at Dunblane station and was the second footbridge on the site.

With its attractive lattice-work and decorative piers it is an unusual survivor, particularly with its covered deck and graceful segmental arch.

The bridge survived in use at Dunblane, relatively unaltered, for over a century until the current Caledonian Railway, operating a four mile preserved railway from Brechin to Bridge of Dun, was approached by Network Rail in 2012 – which was in the process of upgrading access at the listed Dunblane station and was keen to explore the possibility of relocating the bridge.

A site close to the location of the original footbridge at Bridge of Dun station was identified as suitable and with the agreement of the appropriate planning authorities work commenced.

The bridge was carefully dismantled and refurbished by the expert team of Millar Callaghan Engineering Ltd in Irvine.

And following groundwork by Story Contracting the bridge was finally erected last month.

The railway are very grateful to Network Rail for facilitating the project and the bridge in its new location greatly enhances the experience for passengers at Bridge of Dun station, not just improving access to the historic stations platforms and canopy but also allowing young and old, a new perspective on the railway from its lofty position.