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Works scheduled to begin on removal of dangerous bridge
North Ayrshire Council has secured funding to move ahead with plans to demolish the structurally unsafe Valefield pedestrian bridge in Kilbirnie.
The funding pledge from the Scottish Government, working in partnership with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, will allow the bridge to be removed with plans already progressing for a new crossing over the River Garnock.
Currently, the bridge is closed to the public due to concerns regarding its structural integrity. While the deck surface appears to be in reasonable condition, the underlying structure is extensively corroded and continues to deteriorate.
Extensive efforts have been made to establish ownership of the bridge, including enquiries with the adjacent landowners, Tata Steel and Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans). Despite these enquiries, ownership has not been established, and no party has been identified as being responsible for the structure.
Despite ongoing efforts by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and Tata Steel to secure the bridge, barriers and warning signage have been repeatedly removed or displaced, resulting in unauthorised access to the structure.
Therefore, in the interests of public safety, the Council has exercised its statutory powers and served a Dangerous Building Notice.
If no owner comes forward to undertake the necessary repairs, the Council will arrange for the structure to be removed. Following the appointment of a contractor, demolition works are expected to commence on 26 October 2026, removing the risk posed by the deteriorating bridge and helping to prevent further unauthorised access.
Meanwhile, work has commenced on the design of a replacement bridge nearby. This will ensure that connectivity for people walking, wheeling and cycling is restored, while providing a structure that meets modern design and safety standards. Initial feasibility work has been completed and designs are being progressed, with construction targeted for 2027, subject to funding being secured.
Quote: The condition of the bridge means it can no longer be safely retained, and these works are necessary to protect the public. At the same time, we are looking ahead and developing proposals for a replacement crossing that will restore this important route for local people. The project is an important investment in active travel and will help improve connections within Kilbirnie and the surrounding area."
Quote from: Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and Islands
The NCN 7 Valefield Bridge Demolition project is backed by funding from the Scottish Government and developed and delivered through partnership between North Ayrshire Council and Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.
Published: 19 October 2026