EHG4623 - DBA, measured, photographic and 3D laser scan surveys - Achlain Bridges, Fort Augustus

AOC Archaeology Group was commissioned by Forestry Commission Scotland to undertake a Structural Costed Conservation Plan for the Achlain Bridges, Fort Augustus, in line with their aspirations to conserve the bridges as a heritage asset through repair and maintenance as necessary. The three bridges date to the mid-C18 and form part of the military road constructed between Fort Augustus and Bernera by Major Caulfeild, the successor to General Wade, in response to the Jacobite uprisings. They form simple single span bridges to support the road over three burns and are named Bridge 007, Bridge 008 and Bridge 009 as defined by Forestry Commission Scotland. Two of the bridges – Bridges 008 and 009 – are located within land which has been designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument and therefore are protected by statutory law. Archaeological recording of the bridges included a detailed measured survey, a 3D laser scan, a general and detailed photographic record and a detailed written record. The plan incorporated an assessment of the significance of the bridges, an assessment of its current condition and conservation requirements and the identification of the long-term needs to maintain them. <1>