January 30 2014

A fresh batch of visuals depicting the planned Forth Bridge Experience has been released by Network Rail in support of a detailed business plan for a new visitor experience for the World Heritage structure.

Intended to stimulate debate on how best to create a visitor centre, bridge walk, lifts and viewing platform the images illustrate how the iconic feat of engineering could be turned into a major tourist attraction.

Indicative plans prepared by WT Architecture envisage visitors arriving via a landscaped shoreline walkway at a visitor centre embedded within the base of the northern Fife tower. From here two panoramic elevators on the eastern side of the bridge would whisk sightseers to a dramatic viewing platform laid 110m up at the top deck of the bridge.

A separate reception building would be built at the foot of the South Queensferry tower, from which guided walks would be offered on a pre-existing walkway beneath the railway track, connecting with a walkway within the top cantilever for access to the top of the tower.

David Dickson, acting route managing director for Network Rail Scotland said: “We’re currently interrogating the early feasibility study and developing a detailed business plan for delivery of these proposals. The market research study will give us more detailed understanding of the potential market for these visitor plans and we’re keen to hear from as many people as possible, whether you’re excited about visiting the bridge or completely petrified by the prospect.

“The images we’ve released provide a bit more of an insight into how we’d like to package visits to the bridge. They will be used over the coming weeks to help facilitate discussions with local communities and relevant organisations and interest groups.”

No delivery timetable has yet been published.

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