Historic Spey Viaduct collapses into river, prompting closure and safety cordon

A historic railway bridge in Moray has partially collapsed into the River Spey, prompting police to cordon off the area and close it to the public.

The Spey Viaduct, an iron girder structure near Garmouth built in 1886, no longer carries trains but has been a popular route for cyclists and walkers. Social media images showed one of the stone supporting piers leaning at an angle, with part of the metal framework twisted and submerged in the river.

Spanning 350ft (107m) over the fast-flowing River Spey, the bridge—also known as Garmouth Viaduct—was part of a railway line that closed in the 1960s. It was later paved and became a section of the Speyside Way, a long-distance trail stretching from the Moray Firth to the Cairngorms National Park. The bridge is also included in the National Cycle Network.

Moray Council, which oversees the trail, confirmed the bridge will remain closed until further notice while engineers assess the damage. Members of the public have been urged not to approach the structure or cross police cordons.

Local SNP MSP Richard Lochhead said:

"The local community will be heartbroken by the collapse of the much-loved Spey viaduct, which is not only an iconic structure but also incredibly popular with walkers, cyclists, and tourists. I'm now in touch with Moray Council seeking answers around when and by whom the structure was last checked, and what happens next with regards to the future of the bridge."

Moray Council added:

"Our engineers are aware and will assess the situation before further detail can be provided. Members of the public and media are asked to keep their distance from the rest of the bridge structure. Do not pass the police cordon in place and do not climb on any part of the bridge - thank you for your co-operation."

Local councillor Shona Morrison reflected on the loss:

"The viaduct holds such a special place in my family's heart, it is devastating to see the collapse of such a well-loved and iconic landmark."

Image: Shona Morrison