Moray Council first as 'plastic bottle' bridges replace wooden footbridges in Forres
WORK is under way to install Moray’s first footbridges constructed entirely from materials made from recycled plastic bottles.
The new footbridges at the Mosset Pond in Forres, which replace the existing timber ones at the end of their lifespan and beyond economic repair, are manufactured from recycled plastic bottles which would otherwise be single-use plastic bound for landfill or incineration.
Plastic replacements, of similar size and style to the previous bridges, will give an anticipated lifespan of up to 50 years before major maintenance is required, after which the plastic can be recycled once again. This compares to around 15 – 20 years for like-for-like softwood timber replacements, which would rot and be unable to be reused, and likely shredded or incinerated.
The existing bridges will close to pedestrians for the duration of the works, which are set to take between three and four weeks depending on the weather conditions. A diversion route is signposted on-site.
Convener of Moray Council, Cllr Shona Morrison, said the project was an innovative approach to reducing the council’s carbon emissions.
“This £50k investment at the Mosset Pond secures long-term, low-maintenance access to a popular beauty spot for locals and visitors and, importantly, also demonstrates our commitment to reducing and reusing waste.”