West End News : LibDem Councillor welcomes proposal to light the Tay Rail Bridge

8.50.10am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 1st Mar 2006

Cllr Fraser Macpherson welcomes proposal to light Tay Rail Bridge

Liberal Democrat West End Councillor, Cllr Fraser Macpherson, has welcomed the "positive response" by Network Rail to his suggestion that the rail company consider lighting the Tay Rail Bridge at night.

Although a final decision on lighting cannot be determined by Network Rail until completion of substantial works on the bridge over the next six years and is dependent upon a number of factors, Cllr Macpherson said he was very pleased that Network Rail was taking the suggestion seriously.

"I think anyone who views the rather spectacular lighting of the Forth Rail Bridge from North Queensferry is struck by the fact that similar lighting of the Tay Rail Bridge would look superb. So many constituents say how impressive the Tay Rail Bridge is and lighting it at night would enhance this," commented Cllr Macpherson.

Cllr Macpherson recently undertook a site visit to the area adjacent to the north side of the bridge at Riverside Approach, along with the Bridge Manager, Network Rail's Lineside Manager, their Public Affairs Manager and representatives from West End Community Council. Apart from raising the possibility of lighting the bridge, improvements to the area adjacent to the bridge were discussed.

"I am very pleased that one thing Network Rail has agreed to do in the near future is the removal of the ugly graffitied blue hoardings on Riverside Approach, which are unsightly and a constant source of complaint from residents," continued Cllr Macpherson.

"In the longer term, apart from bridge lighting, Network Rail has agreed that after the bridge refurbishment works are completed, it will also consider improving and reopening the walkway underpass from Riverside Drive to Riverside Approach, and the provision of quality permanent fencing in the areas adjacent to Riverside Approach," he continued.

Dave Boyce, Public Affairs Manager at Network Rail said, "I agree like the Forth Bridge lighting of the Tay Bridge would be a fitting way to mark the completion of the refurbishment works and I will pursue this separately with the Project Managers."

Related Link:

Bridge over Silvery Tay could be seen in new light - Press & Journal .