Historic footbridge set to remain as plans for new accessible footbridge at Nairn train Station get green light
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A planning application to build a new accessible footbridge at Nairn train station was approved earlier today, with conditions in place to retain the historic Victorian footbridge.
Members at Highland Council's South Planning Committee granted the application submitted by Network Rail in April which aims to create a new accessible structure with lifts at the station on Cawdor Road.
However the applicant will be required to maintain the footbridge until works to electrify the Inverness-Aberdeen line will be effectively carried out as well as be responsible to relocate the bridge to an appropriate heritage centre should the structure need to be removed.
They will also be required to maintain it and keep it open for pedestrian use until the removal is deemed necessary.
The plans to enhance accessibility between platform for anyone with mobility impairment was welcomed by the local access panel and councillors when it was first announced earlier this year.
However the proposal included the removal of the existing historic footbridge – which forms part of the B-listed building – sparked objections from community councils and Highland Council officials alike.
Officer Norman Brockie said the reasoning given by Network Rail for the removal was the potential future electrification of the line between Inverness and Aberdeen – which would require further clearance height to operate – as well as the lack of "remit" and funding to maintain an unused structure.
"We don't agree," he said during the meeting. "They have remit and responsibility to maintain the structure.
"We are not happy with this rationale of using electrification as reason for the removal of the footbridge.
"If we look at the dualling of the A9 we see that projects by Transport Scotland do not always meet the date proposed, and the electrification programme is currently quite vague, with a requirement to be completed by 2032.
"The existing footbridge is a delicate Victorian cast iron structure hugely enhances the character of the complete Highland station.
"To lose the footbridge without a valid justification is completely unacceptable."
Mr Brockie recognised Network Rail's efforts to produce a new design for the new footbridge more in line with the aesthetics of the surrounding structure to have a 'softer' impact on the
Nairn councillor Paul Oldham proposed the amendment which will require Network Rail to maintain pedestrian access onto the bridge until the structure is removed.
Nairn Provost Laurie Fraser supported the application with the conditions agreed.
He said: "The new footbridge is long overdue and the lift will bring great benefit.
"My main concern with old bridge is it's current state and I'd like to request a condition report
"It can then be removed when electrification arrives and go to likes of Boat of Garten or Aviemore steam train."
A Network Rail spokesperson said: "We are glad that Highland Council’s South Planning Committee has approved the proposal to deliver an accessible bridge with lifts at Nairn station. Improving access to the railway is a key enabler of modal shift and supports our view that rail travel is for everyone.
"We will take some time to review the conditions attached to the approval and discuss these further with stakeholders, including the Council, to agree next-steps."
