Ancient bridge is saved

The Wester Dullatur Jubilee Bridge will continue to be a landmark in the area for many years to come thanks to the efforts of local politicians, Dullatur Community Council and residents who fought against Network Rail’s plans to demolition the bridge.

Margaret Smillie, secretary of Dullatur Community Council, explained: “When it was first indicated that the 170 year old bridge was to be demolished, the whole community with the backing of our MP, MSP and local councillors lobbied Network Rail to reconsider the situation.

“The stone bridge was an important historical link with Wester Dullatur Farm and the village of Dullatur.”

She added: “David Boyce, communications manager of Network Rail, took this on board and met with community representatives, North Lanarkshire Council councillors and Paul Carter, chairman of Friends of Kelvin Valley Park.

“David listened and talked to the dog walkers, ramblers and riders who use the bridge on a regular basis to access Croy Hill and the recreational facilities of the Forth and Clyde Canal.

“From the seeds of an idea with support from North Lanarkshire Council, plans were drawn up and the idea became the reality that is before us today.”

For full story, see this week’s Cumbernauld News and Kilsyth Chronicle dated Wednesday, July 25.

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