Boardwalk in Inverness local nature reserve is saved – for now
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An Inverness building contractor has stepped in to help preserve a well-used boardwalk at the heart of a community project in Inverness.
The wooden walkway in Merkinch Local Nature Reserve was temporarily closed due to safety concerns.
A ramp, which gives disabled access remains closed, but the rest of the structure has been repaired and reopened for now although ultimately it will need replacing.
Scott MacDonald, who owns MacDonald Contracting in Smithton Industrial Estate, offered to help after visiting the 54-hectare site with project manager Caroline Snow.
Mr MacDonald, who has a five-strong workforce, said: "I am a wee small business specialising in building walkways and viewing structures."
He was able to help out with labour, equipment and some surplus materials and volunteers also helped.
"It will keep it going for a bit longer until the project can secure some funding," he said, adding he occasionally walked around the reserve but had not realised it was a community-run project.
"During the half hour I was down there taking a look, about 20 people must have passed by," he said.
"It is a busy trail.
"I think it is important to keep it open."
Highland Council and Sustrans are looking into potential funding for the replacement of the structure estimated to cost at least £100,000.
Related story: Merkinch nature reserve boardwalk closed due to safety fears
