Kirkcudbright Bridge restrictions revealed ahead of reopening
The crossing over the River Dee is to open to cars and light vans next Wednesday.
Kirkcudbright Bridge is set to open at 7am on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, to cars and light vans while operating under single-lane traffic restrictions.
The crossing over the River Dee has been closed to vehicles since March 2025, when a structural report found it wasn’t safe.
The decision to reopen comes after an in-depth analysis by the local authority’s engineering team in partnership with consultants Mott MacDonald.
Although it remains fully accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, only certain vehicles can cross if they don’t go over the maximum weight of 3 tonnes; aren’t wider than 2.3 metres; are no longer than 5.6 metres; and are not towing a trailer or similar.
Physical barriers, including kerbing, bollards, and planter boxes will be positioned to stop drivers from exceeding the limits.
The road will have a maximum speed limit of 20mph as well.
Any vehicles that don’t meet the new restrictions are to continue using the alternative routes.
Councillors are continuing to explore options that will see the bridge fully reopen.
Councillor Andy Ferguson, Chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said:
“We know how important this bridge is to the people of Kirkcudbright and the surrounding area. Reopening it safely to cars, light vans and motorcycles is a significant step forward, and I want to thank the community for their patience and understanding while we’ve worked through the technical challenges.
“This reopening is a positive milestone, but we’re also looking to the future. Work is already underway to explore options for a new bridge that will serve Kirkcudbright for generations to come.”
Councillor Tony Berretti, Vice Chair of the committee, added:
“This is a measured and carefully managed reopening. The safety of all users is paramount, and our teams will monitor the bridge and surrounding routes daily to ensure the system operates smoothly.”