A couple of photos have appeared on-line suggesting that there was to be a walkway on the side of the Glenesk Viaduct.
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The brackets will support a new walkway prior to the reintroduction of rail traffic
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http://www.railbrit.co.uk/imageenlarge/imagecomplete.php?id=46409
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A 'bolt-on' cantilevered pedestrian footpath / cycleway will be attached to the viaduct prior to the reintroduction of rail traffic - note the brackets.
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http://www.railbrit.co.uk/imageenlarge/imagecomplete.php?id=46403
HOWEVER -
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The original intention was to erect a cantilever walkway for railway track maintenance work only. However, the final design for the railway included single track at this location thus leaving sufficient space for maintenance access without the need for the cantilever walkway. The text for the image is therefore out of date.
The undertaking that had to be given to Historic Scotland for the Site of an Ancient Monument (SAM) in the adjacent fields meant there was no way that the railway could incorporate a walkway / cycle path.
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So originally the idea was double track and permission was granted for a walkway for access by rail staff.
Brackets installed at some point.
Now single track with room for a path - but not allowed??
The loss of this direct route avoiding unpleasant roads and steep hills was unfortunate - the re-opening of the railway will benefit more people.
Now it seems as though a public walk/cycleway could have been maintained.
Is it too late???