Forth Bridge could be opened up to tourists by 2015

Intrepid members of the public could soon be allowed access to the top of the Forth Bridge if Network Rail’s plans to reinvent the landmark as a tourist destination get the go ahead.

Concepts released today (August 27) by Network Rail look to create a new visitors centre and viewing platform on the rail bridge by 2015, allowing small groups to travel by lift to the top of the northern Fife Tower and enjoy the spectacular views across the Firth of Forth.

A feasibility study into the project, which is expected to cost between £12 and £15 million, also suggested building a ‘pod-style’ building on the south side to coordinate guided walks along the south approach span and across to the top of the southern Queensferry Tower out of.

David Simpson, route managing director, Network Rail Scotland said: “After 10 years spent restoring the bridge to its full glory, and in advance of the application for world heritage listing, these plans will offer the public the chance to visit the bridge and see it ‘close-up’ for the first time.

“We are hugely excited by these proposals and believe that they have the potential to be developed into an important new visitor attraction for Scotland.

“It’s an ambitious target, but we’d love to see these plans at least partially realised by 2015 to coincide with the bridge’s 125th anniversary. Any profits from the two facilities would be reinvested into the upkeep of the bridge.”




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