Bridge at St Andrews' Old Course to be replaced
A bridge at The Old Course in St Andrews is set to be replaced after a planning application was given the go-ahead.
The St Andrews Link Trust had applied for permission to replace the Caddie Pavilion Bridge on the world famous course as it is nearing the end of its useful life.
The structure is one of five small bridges at the venue to cross the Swilcan Burn and is used to take golf course vehicles – including buggies and course maintenance vehicles – as well as pedestrians across the water.
A report by planners said the existing timber bridge deck would be replaced with a reinforced concrete deck and concrete edge beams.
A resin-bound gravel surfacing would the be incorporated to provide a more durable and slip-resistant surface.
The report continued: “Existing timber handrails would be retained and reused where possible, whilst steel uprights and balustrading would replicate the appearance of the existing bridge.
“The continued maintenance and replacement of existing infrastructure is necessary to ensure the ongoing operation and accessibility of the facility. The proposal would maintain an established access route and is considered acceptable in principle.”
Planners say the new structure will occupy the same location and fulfil the same function.
Granting permission, they added: “The development would maintain an important access route within the site, preserve the established character of the area and would not give rise to any unacceptable impacts in terms of visual amenity, access, movement or neighbouring amenity.”