Funding has been secured from the UK government’s Community Regeneration Partnership and the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (WWCT) to carry out further repairs on the Haughhead Bridge in Innerleithen. While the bridge reopened on a limited basis in December 2024 for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users, it remained closed to horse riders due to safety concerns over the deck’s strength. The new funding will enable the bridge to fully reopen to horse riders later this year.

The Haughhead Bridge serves as a vital active travel link, connecting users to National Cycle Network Route 1 and popular mountain biking trails in the area. Chris Brace of the WWCT emphasized the importance of maintaining safe and accessible routes like this to promote active travel and improve connectivity across Scotland’s National Cycle Network.