Monument record MHG16781 - Bridge on Shiel Bridge to Glenelg Road (Over Allt Ratagan)

This single span stone bridge of unknown date, 3.6m wide, has a very high arch. This arch is beginning to crumble, the parapets are disintegrating and vegetation can be seen growing out of the stonework. It has now been superseded by the modern road and bridge and carries what remains of an old metalled road. This road extends for a short distance on either side of the bridge.
Visited by OS (NKB) 4 October 1966.
M Logie (Highland Council) 1997; NMRS MS 1007/6.

Circa 1815. Rubble, single narrow arched bridge and causeway; overall height approximately 40', bridge 35' high by 10'
wide. Low parapet with sharp bend at SE end and widely splayed at NW.
Carries section of Parliamentary Road from Glenshiel to Bernera Barracks, Glenelg and old crossing to Skye at Kylerhea. <1>

The bridge was surveyed by Forestry Commission Scotland in May 2011. The survey report notes that "the well-preserved bridge is of significance as an unusual and evocative remnant of Thomas Telford’s Highland road network, an engineering achievement of national importance." The bridge measures about 40 metres in length and between 8 metres and 5 metres in width over a parapet measuring between 0.5m and 0.6m in width. At its highest point the bridge stands at 13 metres. At some point a crude repair has been carried out to the arch which is supported with five iron brace fixtures. The survey report concludes that the bridge is in a generally stable condition and is structurally sound, but recommends that consideration be given to a sympathetic repair of the parapet using local stone and to repointing of masonry where necessary. The survey report contains a full architectural description and drawings of this bridge and helpful background information about the building of the parliamentary roads. <2>