**Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes MSP, marked the reopening of the bridge which has been upgraded as part of SSE Renewables’ 49.9MW Aberarder Wind Farm project**
Deputy First Minister and MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, Kate Forbes, has officially reopened the iconic Flichity Bridge on Friday 4 October, following a £2.5m investment by SSE.
The Flichity Bridge upgrade comes as part of SSE Renewables’ 49.9MW Aberarder Wind Farm project which is currently under construction in Strathnairn.
Part of the B851 road, the bridge is important for local communities and had been requiring replacement for a number of years.
The Flichity area is highly susceptible to flooding during bad weather due to its location adjacent to the River Nairn and investment on a new bridge and road redesign will reduce flooding by lifting the road levels across the bridge and approaches either side, maintaining community access to vital services.
Construction started in April this year, with a temporary road and bridge installed while the old Flichity Bridge was replaced.
"It was a pleasure to officially open the new bridge at Flichity as the culmination of a multi-million pound project by SSE Renewables.
Kate Forbes Deputy First Minister for Scotland and MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch
Over the past few years flooding has been an increasing problem at the old bridge, and at times even unpassable for 4x4s, so remedial works to reduce the flood risk here are warmly welcomed and will hopefully make a significant difference for local residents.
It shows what can happen when developers work proactively with Highland communities to provide a positive and meaningful legacy for everyone’s benefit."
"I’m delighted that Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes MSP, has been able to come and officially reopen the Flichity Bridge today.
Heather Donald Director of Onshore Wind, Solar & Battery – SSE Renewables
This £2.5m investment by SSE Renewables as part of our Aberarder Wind Farm project will benefit the local communities living along the B851 route and will allow the project team to safely transport components to site while leaving a lasting legacy for residents after construction is completed.
Community benefit is at the heart of all SSE Renewables projects and it’s great to have worked in partnership with the Highland Council to deliver the Flichity Bridge upgrade."
The Flichity Bridge on the B851 is the main road linking the A9, towards Fort Augustus for the communities of Strathnairn and Stratherrick and Foyers. In partnership with the Highland Council, it was agreed that SSE Renewables would replace the bridge to be used as part of the wind turbine delivery route for Aberarder Wind Farm, a welcomed investment of £2.5 million for the local community.
Aberarder Wind Farm is currently under construction and work is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.