Democracy Spraffa

Supplementary Agenda Document Pack - Moray Council - 28/01/2026

Moray Council · 28 January 2026
Back to Moray Council — 28 January 2026 and its agenda

Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.

Original council PDF · Download plain text

Page 1

Moray Council 
Wednesday, 28 January 2026 
The undernoted report(s) has been added to the agenda for the meeting of Moray
Council at 09:30, in terms of Section 50B (4)(b) of the Local Government (Access to
Information) Act 1985 by reason of special circumstances on the Chair accepting the
report as urgent business. 
NOTE REFERRED TO:- 
5a. Short to Medium Term Financial Plan
Report by Chief Executive  
3 - 16
9a. Spey Viaduct
Report by Executive Director Economy, Enterprise and Operations  
17 - 60 
Page 1

Page 2

Page 2

Page 3

Report to: Moray Council Meeting Date: 28 January 2026  
Report by: Chief Executive      
Author: Lorraine Paisey Contact Email: lorraine.paisey@moray.gov.uk 
Subject: Short to Medium Term Financial Plan 
1.  PURPOSE 
☒ For Decision      ☐  For Information 
1.1  The purpose of this report is to update the Short to Medium Term Financial Plan for
the period 2025/26 to 2027/28.  
1.2  This report is submitted to Council in terms of Section III A (2) of the Council's
Scheme of Administration relating to revenue and capital budgets.  
2. REASON FOR URGENCY  
2.1 This report is submitted to Council in terms of the Local Government (Access to
Information) Act 1985, on the Chair certifying that, in her opinion it requires to be
considered on the grounds of urgency in order to give early consideration. 
3. SUMMARY  
3.1  This report gives an update on the indicative budgets for 2026/27 and 2027/28
noted by Council on 26 February 2025, when the budget for 2025/26 was approved
(paragraph 3 of the minute refers).  At that point the budget for 2025/26 was
balanced but a budget gap was forecast for 2026/27 and 2027/08.  The Short to
Medium Term Financial Strategy approved by Council on 26 June 2025 (paragraph 9
of the Minute refers) set out an approach towards closing this budget gap.  This
report follows that Strategy. 
3.2 Amendments to the Council’s budget for 2025/26 and indicative budgets were
approved by Council on 24 September 2025 (paragraph 10 of the Minute refers) and
on 3 December 2025 (paragraph 12 of the Minute refers).  The savings estimated to
Item 5a.
Page 3

Page 4

be required in 2026/27 were estimated at £2.4 million, less any savings which could
be achieved in-year in 2025/26. 
3.3 The report updates for the current estimated position regarding loans charges, as
reflected in a separate report to this meeting, and shows the impact of the draft
local government settlement announced on 13 January 2026.    
3.4 Further recurring savings totalling £203,000 in 2026/27 are proposed.  
4. RECOMMENDATIONS  
4.1 It is recommended that Council approve:   
i)  Recurring savings of £203,000 in 2026/27 and one-off savings of
£10,000 in 2026/27, as set out in paragraphs 6.1 to 6.12; 
ii)  A review of the Music Centre with the objective of making this service
fully cost recovered (see paragraph 6.13); and 
iii)  An increase in budget in 2025/26 for Moray Integration Joint Board
(MIJB) of £445,000 as the pro rata share of funding for the 2025/26 pay
award.   
4.2 It is also recommended that Council note: 
i) The impact of the provisional local government settlement; and 
ii) That risks and uncertainties about the budget for 2026/27 still remain
and will be addressed in the budget setting report to Council on 25
February 2026   
Lorraine Paisey
Chief Financial Officer 
5.  BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT  
5.1  This report gives an update on the indicative budgets for 2026/27 and 2027/28
noted by Council on 26 February 2025, when the budget for 2025/26 was approved
(paragraph 3 of the minute refers) and updated on 24 September 2025 (paragraph
10 of the minute refers).  A budget gap was forecast for 2026/27 and 2027/08.  The
Short to Medium Term Financial Strategy approved by Council on 26 June 2025
(paragraph 9 of the Minute refers) set out an approach towards closing this budget
gap.  This report follows that Strategy.  
5.2  The Short to Medium Term Financial Strategy aims to hold in balance two main
sources of financial change:  the Council’s Transformation Strategy, which is
recognised as the source of long-term change, and service redesign in response to
Page 4

Page 5

short-term requirements.  These short-term requirements could arise from changes
in demand for service, inflation or other external cost impact or underlying
overspends identified during review of the out-turn for 2024/45 and projected out-
turn for 2025/26.    
5.3  As a first step in implementing this strategy budget variances from 2024/25 were
reviewed with heads of service to identify if any continuing underspends could be
taken as savings.  Further review has identified further savings and these are
recommended in the report.  
5.4  The Council has been making steady progress towards balancing the budget for
2026/27.  APPENDIX 1 shows the current estimated budgetary position for
2026/27, including the overspend projected for 2025/26 reported to Council on 3
December 2025 as continuing into 2026/27 as part of the opening position for
2026/27 and a preliminary assessment of emerging budget pressures for 2026/27, 
which will be  included in the budget proposals for Council on 25 February 2026. 
6.  PROPOSALS  
Savings 
Income
6.1  A more commercial approach to rent reviews for premisses on the Council’s
Industrial portfolio was approved for the period 2022 to 2025.  This has proved
successful and a continuation of the approach is recommended for 2026/27. 
Market conditions, occupancy rates and payment rates will require to be monitored
to ensure this policy does not start to have a detrimental impact on the performance
of the portfolio.  Staffing vacancies may reduce service capacity for this work but it
is estimated that additional income of £65,000 should be achieved in 2026/27.  
6.2  The Council levies charges for bulky items uplift by the Waste Management service. 
Income generated by these charges is currently outstripping the budget and it is
proposed that the budget for bulky items uplift is increased to reflect current levels
of income, making a budget saving of £18,000.  The level of charge for 2026/27 is
included for consideration in a further report to this meeting. 
6.3  Building Standards fees are set by Scottish Government.  There is an expectation
that an element of fee income is invested in the service to maintain and improve
service standards.  A 12% increase in fees has been set by Scottish Government for
2026/27 and it is recommended that the budget for income uplift generated by
Building Standards fees is increased by 6% (the level of fee increase abated by 50%
for reinvestment in the service), generating a budget saving of £43,000.  
6.4  The Environmental Health income budget has been reviewed and an increase in
budget of £10,000 to reflect 2024/25 actuals and 2025/26 estimated actuals is
recommended. 
Savings / service reduction
Page 5

Page 6

Budget-led approach
6.5  A component of the funding for resettlement of refugees relates to housing
allocation.  It is proposed that the overheads associated with the staff time already
charged to this funding are also charged and it is estimated that £25,000 could
appropriate be recharged, delivering a saving to the General Fund. 
6.6  The Community Safety operational budget has been reviewed and it is
recommended that this is reduced by £8,000 to reflect the actual expenditure in
2024/25 and estimated actual expenditure in 2026/27. 
6.7  Current costs of printer leasing give the opportunity to reduce budgets by £10,000
and this reduction is recommended. 
6.8  A member of admin staff in the Growth, Planning and Climate Service has requested
a reduction in hours and it is recommended that this is taken as a saving of £4,000. 
This will reduce resilience within the team but is considered to be operationally
acceptable  
6.9  A vacancy of 0.4fte in the Payments section of Financial Service is recommended to
be removed, generating a saving of £6,000.  This will reduce resilience within the
team but is considered to be operationally acceptable. 
Best Value approach
6.10  Building Services have successfully delivered savings from a pilot of carrying out
work in Milne’s High School Associate School Group (ASG) and it is recommended
that this is extended to include Keith Grammar School ASG, with anticipated savings
of £10,000. 
6.11  The Procurement team have a vacant 0.3fte Procurement Officer post.  It is
recommended that the team is restructured to delete this post and replace with a
0.3fte Procurement Assistant post.  The team are under increasing pressure to
support procurements, particularly those for external funding which must be spent
within restricted timeframes, and the proposed restructure gives some additional
capacity within the team, enabling simpler procurements to be supported by the
new assistant post and workloads of the Procurement Officers posts adjusted to
allow them to support more complex procurements.  A saving of £4,000 would be
generated. 
Partnership working
6.12  A Shared Services arrangement with Highland Council has been entered into, with
management and development support from Highland Council for the Trading
Standards service, to enable a grow-your-own approach to the vacant Principal
Trading Standards Officer post, which is planned to be advertised in August 2026. 
The contract with Highland Council plus temporary additional hours for the Fair
Trade Officer’s post during the Principal Officer’s vacancy would release one-off
savings of £10,000 in 2026/27.   
Page 6

Page 7

Further options for savings
6.13  Officers have identified a number of potential options for service delivery to make
the Music Centre fully cost-recoverable.  That would generate savings of £12,000. 
Any options would require to be consulted on with the parents and other
responsible adults of the young people who make use of the service and approval to
develop and consult on saving is sought.  As an interim measure the charges for the
use of the Music Centre will be proposed to be increased by the default increase for
charges for services, which are the subject of another report to this meeting. 
Impact of draft Local Government Settlement 
6.14  The draft Local Government Settlement for 2026/27 was issued on 13 February
2026, following the Scottish budget. The draft settlement is for £14,988.790 million,
of which £211.671million remains undistributed in Finance Circular 1/2026. 
6.15  Finance Circular 1/2026 states that the settlement includes: 
• Additional General Revenue Grant of £253.9 million “to support local
priorities”
• Additional £3 million to support the expansion of Free School Meals
• Additional £160 million to support the payment of the Real Living Wage to
social care workers in commissioned adult care services
• Additional £11 million to support payment of the real Living Wage to workers
in commissioned Early Learning and Childcare services
•  Additional £11 million to support payment of the Real Living Wage to people
working in children’s social work commissioned services
• £7 million to support Free Personal and Nursing care 
The letter from the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government to the
President of COSLA makes no stipulations about the funding relating to adult social
care, but the letter from the Interim Chief Finance Officer in the Directorate for
Health and Social Care Finance in Scottish Government to Chief Executives of NHS
Scotland states: “The funding allocated to Integration Authorities should be
additional and not substitutional to 2025/26 budgets for services which are
delegated.  Therefore Local Authority social care budgets for allocation to
Integration Authorities must be at least £167 million greater than 2025/26 recurring
budgets.” 
6.16  The £253.9 million “for local priorities” is not separately identifiable in the back-up
information to Finance Circular 1/2026.  Estimating Moray’s share as 1.65% (based
on the council’s share of the Updated Service Provision, which is the main fund
allocation in the finance circular) would give a “free” increase of £4,189,000. 
However, this includes funding for year two of the two year pay awards agreed in
2025/26.  The baseline amount relating to pay in 2025/26 is £1.8 million (including
teachers) and an estimate of the amount for local government employees (ie non-
teachers) pay in 2026/27 is £0.65 million.  Funding for teachers pay in 2026/27
remains undistributed but will be the subject of a report to COSLA Leaders in early
course.  £0.227 million relates to Council staff under the direction of MIJB, and this
Page 7

Page 8

element is included under budget pressures on the assumption it will be passed to
MIJB. 
Removing the pay award element leaves a residual balance of £1.739 million “for
local priorities”.   In the first instance this requires to be directed to reduce the
estimated savings requirement for 2026/27. 
6.17  The distribution of funding for the expansion of free school meals has yet to be
agreed.  As in previous years the allocation of funding for expansion of free school
meals will be set aside for that purpose until the actual costs have been finalised.  It
is therefore assumed that there is no contribution towards the budget deficit for
2026/27 from this tranche of funding.  There is no capital funding for expansion of
free school meals in the 2026/27 settlement. 
6.18  The Council’s share of the £160 million for the increase in Real Living Wage (RLW) in
adult social care service is £2.927 million.  As in previous years this sum is to be
passported to MIJB.  However, the funding is insufficient to cover the cost of fully
funding the increase in RLW.  The statutory increase in the National Living Wage has
not been funded and therefore the funding amounts to an increase of 74p per hour
rather than the full increase of 85p per hour, a shortfall of £0.435 million.   
6.19  As with adult social care services the funding for the increase in RLW for
commissioned Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) services is not calculated to fully
fund the uplift but falls short by 11p per hour.  The additional £188,000 funding for
RLW is more than offset by a reduction in GAE due to falling ELC rolls. 
6.20  Funding for RLW in commissioned children’s care services has been calculated on
the same basis as in paragraphs 5.19 and 5.20 ie 11p per hour shortfall.  There is no
obligation imposed on the Council to pass this funding to MIJB.  The Council’s
funding for children’s services has been increased by £0.442 million.  This is the
Council’s share of a £24 million increase but this increase is more than will be
included in the final settlement, which will be for an increase of £22 million.  It is as
yet unclear the extent to which any of the £11 million not related to RLW will be
directed by Scottish Government. The assumption in APPENDIX 1 is that the full
increase will be passed to MIJB.  
6.21  Increased funding for Free Personal and Nursing Care is to be passported to MIJB. 
The distribution of this funding is yet to be agreed. 
6.22  The settlement makes particular mention of expanding breakfast club provision,
enhancing wrap-around childcare and developing sporting opportunities for young
people.  There is no mention of these in Finance Circular 1/2026 and as yet no
indication of the role of local government, although the letter from the Cabinet
Secretary (see paragraph 5.16) states that local government  “will remain key
partners in how these propositions are further developed and ultimately delivered”. 
COSLA is seeking  further clarification and has received confirmation that there is
Page 8

Page 9

no increased funding in the settlement for sport. The working assumption is that
there is no implication for the financial provisions notified in finance circular 1/206.  
6.23  The impact of the settlement as provisionally notified is a reduction in savings
required in 2026/27 of £2.389 million, £1.739 million additional funding per
paragraph 5.17 plus £0.65 million relating to pay awards which was not included in
previous estimates of grant funding. 
Further revision
6.24  Capital
The Overview on APPENDIX 1 has been updated to include the impact on loans
charges of the current forecast capital expenditure for 2025/26 as reported in the
report to this meeting on the capital plan for 2026 to 2029.  There is a reduction in
additional loans charges of £0.505 million but also a reduction in planned use of
reserves to cover some specific capital expenditure where profiles have been
amended (Moray Growth Deal and the Learning Estate) – this has been reduced
from £3.668 million to £0.301 million.  The accounting treatment of the PPP has
been further reviewed following the implementation of IFRS 16 for the annual
accounts for 2024/25 and life-cycle costs capitalised, generating revenue savings of 
£0.926 million in 2026/27.   A revised estimate of Interest on Revenue Balances is
£0.65 million above budget.  The net impact is an increased savings target of £1.286
million.   
6.25  Savings and other central provisions 2025/26 and 2026/27
The timing of some planned savings and required use of reserves in 2025/26 has
been reviewed and this will be reported in detail along with quarter 3 budget
monitoring to Corporate Committee on 17 February 2026.  The net impact on
2026/27 is an increase in savings target of £0.2 million.  The impact of pay awards in
2025/26 on the inflation provision required for 2026/27 is calculated to be £0.215
million increase, with this completely offset by the undistributed pay award funding
in the settlement.  A review of budget pressures (including brought forward recurring
overspends) previously reported results in a provisional reduction of £1.526 million. 
Budget pressures in APPENDIX 1 include £2.927 million to be passported to MIJB
and £0.442 million additional funding for children’s services.  This figure is expected
to be reduced as Scottish Government have confirmed an element of the funding is
overstated. £0.227 million is included as a estimate of the MIJB share of funding for
the 2026/27 pay award. 
6.26  Non Domestic Rates revaluation and rate poundage
Revaluation of Council properties resulted in an increase of rateable value.  This is
mitigated by the reduced rate poundage.  The net impact is estimated as an increase
in budget required of £0.3 million. 
6.27  The net impact of these reviews is an increase on savings target of £0.275: 
Ref Increase 
£m
Decrease 
£m
Page 9

Page 10

Capital 5.24 1.286 
Central provisions  5.25 0.215 1.526
NDR 5.26 0.300 
Total  1.801 1.423 
6.28  Revised savings target 2026/27 
Ref £m £m
Savings target reported 3/12/2025   2.387
Impact of settlement 5.23 (2.389) 
Impact of other changes 5.27 0.275 
Savings recommended 5.1 – 5.12 (0.213) 
Balance   0.060 
This is reflected in APPENDIX 1 to this report. 
7.  SUMMARY OF IMPLICATIONS  
7.1  The table below shows whether risks and implications apply if the
recommendations are agreed: 
SUBJECT YES NO
Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcome Improvement Plan)  X
Policy and Legal  X
Financial X 
Risk X 
Staffing  X
Best Value and Transformation  X
Property  X
Information Communications Technology/Digital          X
Equalities. Social Inclusion and Economic Impact   X
Climate Change and Biodiversity Impact  X 
7.2  Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan
(LOIP))
Improved Collaborative Leadership, as part of continuous improvement
through Best Value, will better enable the Council to fulfil the ambitions set
out in its strategic plans. 
a) Links to Council Corporate Plan – The proposals in this report support and
contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the
following Council Plan strategic priorities:
☐ Tackle Poverty and Inequality.
☐ Build Stronger Greener Vibrant Economy.
Page 10

Page 11

☐ Build Thriving, resilient, empowered Communities.   
b) Links to Local Outcomes Improvement Plan – The proposals in this report
support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as
outlined in the following local Outcomes Improvement Plan priorities:
☐ Developing a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable economy
☐ Building a better future for our children and young people in  
Moray.
☐ Empowering and connecting communities.
☐ Improving wellbeing of our population 
7.3  Policy and Legal 
There are no policy and legal implications arising directly from this report. 
7.4  Financial 
Financial implications are discussed throughout the report.  Assuming a 10%
increase in Council Tax and prior to consideration of emerging budget
pressures as part of the budget report, £60,000 further savings require to be
found.   
One off Costs:
Service
Area
Budget Budget
Years
Proposed
Spend this
Year
Virement
From
Other
Comments       
Annually Recurring Costs:
Service
Area
Budget With
Effect
From
Annual
Net
Impact
Virement
From (if
applicable)
Other
Comments
- - - - - - 
7.5  Risk  
There settlement figures are provisional and changes to distribution are
possible.  Funding associated with new initiatives has not been clarified. 
Continuing overspends and areas of pressure continue into 2026/27.  
7.6  Staffing 
No staffing implications arise directly from this report. 
7.7  Best Value and Transformation 
There are no implications arising directly from this report.    
7.8  Property
Page 11

Page 12

No property implications arise directly from this report.    
7.9  Information Communications/Technology/Digital 
No information communications/technology/digital implications arise directly
from this report.    
7.10  Equalities, Social Inclusion and Economic Impact 
There are no equalities, social inclusion or economic impacts arising from this
report.  
7.11  Climate Change and Biodiversity Impacts 
There are no direct climate change or biodiversity implications arising from this
report. 
8.  CONSULTATION  
8.1 This report has been prepared in consultation with the Corporate Leadership
Team and any comments have been included in the report. 
9.  BACKGROUND PAPERS  
9.1 None. 
Page 12

Page 13

APPENDIX 1 
BUDGET OVERVIEW as at 23 JANUARY 2026 
2026/27  2027/28
Revenue Expenditure £000s  £000s
Service allocations (assuming prior year
savings are achieved)
300,966  311,469
Adjustments to brought forward figure: 1,421  34
Opening budget 302,387  311,503
Pay and price increases 7,615  7,660 
Increase in Loan Charges per budget 545  2,409
New Burdens 0  0
Budget pressures:   
- Approved or noted for future years when
budget set 161  (44)
Approved since budget set 229  30
Emerging 4,461  -
Approved to be met from reserves 298  66
Service developments   
-  Approved 0  0
- Proposed 0  0 
315,467  321,624    
Revenue Funding   
General Revenue Grant / NDRI 243,463  243,463
LEIP funding 0  1,343
UKG funding for pEPR 3,359  2,500
Council Tax 63,590  67,802
Funding from Reserves:   
Funded from Ear-marked reserves:   
Transformation 756  187
MGD cash flow   379
Service concession retrospection 301  1,871     
311,469  316,202    
SAVINGS REQUIRED 3,998  5,421    
Page 13

Page 14

Savings Summary   
Savings Approved:   
Approved when budget set 2,195  1,505
Temporary savings  117  50
Further savings approved 976  149
Indicative Savings from I&M Programme 447  0
Other savings proposed 203      
Savings to be identified 60  3,717 
3,998  5,421
Projected year end position:   
Free Balance on General Reserves   6,000  6,000
Estimated Balance on Transformation
Reserve   3,631  3,444
Estimated balance on MGD cash flow
reserve 3,699  2,604
Estimated balance from retrospective
service concession saving 
7,225  5,354 
Page 14

Page 15

Page 15

Page 16

Page 16

Page 17

Report to: Moray Council  Meeting Date: 28 January 2026  
Report by: Executive Director Economy, Enterprise and Operations      
Author: Debbie Halliday Contact
Email:
debbie.halliday@moray.gov.uk 
Subject: Spey Viaduct 
1.  PURPOSE 
☒ For Decision      ☐  For Information 
1.1  The purpose of this report is to seek authorisation to award a contract to remove spans of
the viaduct from the River Spey and advise that officers will continue to engage with
external bodies to identify potential sources of funding for reinstatement of the viaduct.  
1.2  This report is submitted to Council in terms of Section III (F) (15) To exercise all functions
of the Council as Roads Authority including safety, the detailed planning, design and
construction, improvement, maintenance and lighting of roads, bridges and other
structures and excluding street naming functions [see Section III (E)(6) above].  
2. REASON FOR URGENCY  
2.1 This report is submitted to Council in terms of the Local Government (Access to
Information) Act 1985, on the Chair certifying that, in her opinion it requires to be
considered on the grounds of urgency in order to enable prompt decision making and
works relating to the safety of the bridge structure.  
3. SUMMARY  
3.1 The Moray Coastal Line, including the Spey Viaduct, opened in 1886 and closed in 1968. 
The Local Authority, now Moray Council, took title to the viaduct in 1975.  The viaduct is B
Listed and forms part of the Moray Coastal Trail. On 15 December 2025 two spans of the
viaduct collapsed.  An investigation into the cause of the collapse has begun, however, a
full investigation cannot be undertaken until the collapsed spans have been removed from
the river.  The cost of the investigation, including all surveys, is approximately £75,000,
however, Transport Scotland has agreed to fund part of the investigation so the cost to
Moray Council would be £33,000.  The work to remove the spans from the river is currently
out to tender with an estimated cost of £500,000.   Officers have had discussions with
external bodies to identify potential funding sources to reinstate the viaduct and provide
alternative temporary routes for cyclist and walkers.    
4. RECOMMENDATIONS 
Item 9a.
Page 17

Page 18

4.1 It is recommended that Council:   
i)  Delegate authority to the Chief Financial Officer and Head of Operations and
Environment to award a contract to remove the collapsed spans from the
River Spey at an estimated cost of £500,000, subject to the Chief Financial
Officer confirming actual costs are within reasonable proximity to estimated
costs as set out in paragraph 5.5 of this report and £38,000 to fully investigate
the cause of the collapse and the structural integrity of the remaining
structure as set out in paragraph 5.4 of this report;   
ii)  Note that Officers will submit an application for Listed Building Consent to
remove the collapsed spans; and   
iii)  Agree Officers continue to engage with external bodies and the community to
source potential funding to reinstate the walking and cycling route and
investigate temporary alternatives, noting the grant funding awarded by
Transport Scotland as referenced in paragraph 5.11.   
Debbie Halliday
Service Manager Design Consultancy 
5. BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT  
5.1 In 1886 the Moray Coastal Line, which includes the Spey Viaduct, was opened to goods
and passenger trains.  This line closed in 1968 and in 1975 the Local Authority, now Moray
Council, took title to the structure.  The viaduct was B listed in 1981.  This is an important
route for pedestrians and cyclists and is part of the NCN1 (National Cycle Network) route
from Dover to Wick. 
5.2 The River Spey is a highly dynamic river system.  The lower Spey is an actively braiding
gravel bed river.  Deposition of course gravel from the upstream catchment forms gravel
bars, which causes the channel to move. Appendix 1 provides aerial photographs showing
how the river has moved at the location of the viaduct over a period of years.  Last year the
main flow channel in the river moved towards the west bank of the river. 
5.3 Since taking ownership of the viaduct the council has undertaken three inspections.  A
scour inspection and General Inspection were undertaken in 2010 and a General
Inspection was undertaken in 2025.  The work recommended in the General Inspection
was to repaint steelwork, repairs to a lap-joint which has section loss, repair to a historic
crack in the central pier, repair or replace decayed timber deck, investigate sediment
movement around the east span.  This work was identified as high priority for future
funding.   An informal scour assessment was undertaken in 2023 and this found that the
structure is founded on rock and that scour was not considered a significant risk.  On 30
September 2014, Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee agreed
that work to replace damaged deck boards be carried out and that other works identified,
including a structural survey of the viaduct be progressed through the council’s Asset
Management Working Group as part of the council’s capital plan process (paragraph 10 of
the minute refers).  Work to replace the deck boards was completed in 2015 and a budget
pressure for the other work identified was included in the capital plan.  To date no budget
has been allocated for this work.  A bid for funding for a full structural survey was made to
Sustrans in 2022 and is on its reserve list for future funding.
Page 18

Page 19

5.4 In the early morning of 15 December 2025, 2 spans of the viaduct, to the west of the main
span, collapsed into the River Spey.  The cause of this collapse is currently being
investigated.  An initial inspection noted that the upstream column supporting these
spans had collapsed and the downstream column is leaning.  The other columns to the
west and to the east appear to be in reasonable condition but access to inspect these
structures below water level was not possible. A copy of the inspection report is provided
in Appendix 2.  To fully understand what caused the collapse will require inspection under
the water level and it is currently not considered safe to do this using divers.   A copy of the
Spey Bridge Safety Report is provided in Appendix 3.    The full investigation, including all
surveys, is likely to cost in the region of £75,000.  Transport Scotland has agreed to fund
part of the investigation work (as it relates to future viability) so the estimated cost to
Moray Council is £38,000. There is no budget allocation for this work, therefore, funding
will need to be covered from general slippage in the capital plan for 2025/26 and 2026/27,
which will result in increased financing costs.  There is no revenue budget for this
increase, therefore, savings will be needed in 2026/27 and 2027/28 to accommodate this.  
5.5 The immediate priority has been to make the area safe and fencing has been installed at
the east and west approach to the viaduct and at each end of the viaduct.  A plan showing
the location of the fencing is provided in Appendix 4. It has not been possible to put
fencing to prevent access to the area beneath the viaduct as this would trap debris and
potentially create a dam during flood events.  Signage to warn the public of the risk has
been installed at appropriate locations.   
5.6 The next step to making the area safe is to remove the collapsed spans of the viaduct from
the river.  The structure is unstable and there is a risk of further collapse.  There is also a
risk that debris will build up around the spans putting additional pressure on the structure.
Fencing has been installed to restrict access to the viaduct but it is still possible to access
this area from the river and its banks.  Signage has been installed to warn pedestrians and
river users of the potential danger.  If further collapse does occur this could destabilise the
remaining structure.   
5.7 Officers have had initial discussions with the council’s framework contractors to discuss
safe methods of removing the spans.  There are two options available to the council, either
the spans can be removed in one piece or they can be cut into sections and removed. 
Both spans are resting on the remaining columns and there is a risk that these columns
will suffer damage when the spans are removed.  The collapsed span to the west has
buckled and split and would not be salvageable for reuse.  It is also unlikely that this span
could be safely removed in one piece. It may be possible to salvage the other span but
engineers have been unable to carry out a detailed structural assessment because the
section cannot be safely reached. Given the age of the spans and the uncertainty
regarding their condition there is a significant risk that they would break apart when
moved, which would have serious safety implications for the contractor.  If cut into smaller
sections, this risk would be significantly reduced.  Any removal attempt would require
substantial heavy engineering works to provide a safe lifting solution. The cost of removing
this span from the river in one piece would cost in excess of £1,000,000.  To remove both
spans in sections would carry less risk with regard to safety and potential damage to the
remaining structure.  The estimated cost of removing both spans in sections is in the
region of £500,000.  It is likely that there will be logistical challenges associated with both
options due to the access routes through the village of Garmouth, however, transporting
the spans through the village in one piece may not be possible.  Based on the information
Page 19

Page 20

above the preferred method of removal is to take the spans out of the river in sections. 
5.8 As the structure is B Listed this work will require Listed Building Consent.  Officers have
discussed both options with planning officers and Historic Environment Scotland and
both parties were generally supportive of the preferred methodology in principle, subject
to provision of justification of this approach.   
5.9 Officers have also contacted NatureScot, SEPA, the Spey Fisheries Board and Crown
Estate Scotland to advise that Moray Council is likely to undertake work in this area to
remove the collapsed spans.  All agencies were supportive when contacted.  All
landowners that may be affected by proposed works have been advised and further
meetings will be held with them in finalising the methodology and access arrangements
for any works agreed. 
5.10 As stated above this is an important route for walkers and cyclists and Officers are working
with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans) to identify alternative routes.  A route has
been identified for cyclists using a minor road but this has to be fully assessed before it
can be agreed.  As yet an alternative route for walkers has not been identified.  Officers
have also met with external bodies to discuss potential funding sources to help with the
provision of alternative routes and at a very high level, reinstatement of the viaduct.  To
consider funding for reinstatement of the viaduct, details of the condition and serviceable
life of the remaining structure will need to be provided. 
5.11 Transport Scotland has agreed to fund some investigation work, which would reduce the
cost of the investigation into the structure and cause of collapse by £37,000.  Funding has
also been made available for a high level economic assessment of the role of the bridge at
£16,500 and for the provision of diversion routes at £60,000.  The total amount of funding
made available by Transport Scotland is £113,500. 
5.12 It is understood that this is a much valued structure and route for local residents and the
wider community.  Officers met with representatives from the community on 22 January to
hear their concerns and answer questions they had. It is clear, and understandable, that
the strong community view is that reinstatement of the bridge should be pursued. There
were a number of specific questions which will be answered in coming days and weeks.
Any matter that requires council decision will be brought to an appropriate committee. 
6. PROPOSALS  
6.1 There are four areas of work currently under consideration:
a) Making safe / removing the collapsed elements of the structure
b) Rerouting active travel routes on a temporary (note this is more than short term)
basis
c) Understanding the cause of collapse and implications for the remaining structure
d) Appraising the feasibility of reinstatement  
6.2 Making safe / removing the collapsed elements of the structure
The tender returns for the work to remove the spans from the river are due back week
commencing 2 February 2026. If Council agrees, Officers will award this contract and
work with the contractor to develop a safe and cost effective method of removing the
spans.  
6.3 An application for Listed Building Consent will be submitted to the Council as Planning
Page 20

Page 21

Authority to undertake the work identified above. Historic Environment Scotland will be
consulted on this application. 
6.4 Rerouting active travel routes on a temporary basis
The Transport Scotland funding of £60k will enable initial works on a diversionary route,
including signage. At this stage it is still anticipated that further work would be needed to
upgrade the diversionary active travel route to make it more suitable for medium term use
whilst the bridge is unavailable. Officers will continue to work with external parties to
identify potential funding sources for this work.  
6.5 Understanding the cause of collapse and implications for the remaining structure
If Council agrees, Officers will progress the investigation into the cause of the collapse
and the condition of the remaining structure, as soon as it is safe to do so.  The cost of this
work, including all surveys, is estimated at £75,000.  Transport Scotland has agreed to
fund part of this work so the estimated cost to Moray Council is £38,000.  
6.6 Appraising the feasibility of reinstatement
At this point in time the council has been awarded £16.5k by Transport Scotland to carry
out a high level economic appraisal in relation to the bridge. The outputs of the appraisal
will be reviewed by officers in collaboration with the community to agree desired next
steps and to seek funding sources.  
6.7 The community has asked about the possibility of providing a temporary crossing.  This
can be investigated, however, it should be noted that the provision of a temporary crossing
is likely to cost in the region of £1,500,000 to £2,000,000. It is proposed that this is
considered alongside reinstatement given there will be interplays between the costs and
timescales of different options set against the backdrop of limited funding options /
affordability.  
6.8 Community Engagement
In line with discussions at the meeting with community representatives on 22 January, it is
proposed that a Steering Group is established with representatives from the community,
local businesses, landowners, contractor and the council to ensure sharing of views and
information to inform decision making by the council going forward. The Steering Group
would be chaired by the Council. Detailed arrangements will be established following this
council meeting.  
7. SUMMARY OF IMPLICATIONS  
7.1 The table below shows whether risks and implications apply if the recommendations are
agreed: 
SUBJECT YES NO
Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcome Improvement Plan)  x
Policy and Legal x 
Financial x 
Risk x 
Staffing x 
Best Value and Transformation  x
Property x 
Page 21

Page 22

Information Communications Technology/Digital             x
Equalities. Social Inclusion and Economic Impact   x
Climate Change and Biodiversity Impact           x 
7.2 Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP))
Improved Collaborative Leadership, as part of continuous improvement through Best
Value, will better enable the Council to fulfil the ambitions set out in its strategic plans. 
a) Links to Council Corporate Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute
to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Council Plan
strategic priorities:
☐ Tackle Poverty and Inequality.
☐ Build Stronger Greener Vibrant Economy.
☐ Build Thriving, resilient, empowered Communities.   
b) Links to Local Outcomes Improvement Plan – The proposals in this report support
and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following
Local Outcomes Improvement Plan priorities:
☐ Developing a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable economy
☐ Building a better future for our children and young people in   Moray.
☐ Empowering and connecting communities.
☐ Improving wellbeing of our population 
7.3 Policy and Legal 
The Council owns Garmouth Viaduct and has a responsibility to make safe the damage
that occurred when the two spans collapsed into the River Spey.   
The council’s Bridge Maintenance Policy relates to network bridges. As Garmouth Viaduct
is a non-network bridge it is not included in this process.  A similar process of prioritisation
is used for non-network bridges and this is based on condition and strategic importance. 
7.4 Financial 
There are costs associated with the work required to remove the spans from the river and
this is currently estimated at £500,000 plus risk.  The estimated cost of investigating the
cause of the collapse and the integrity of the remaining structure is £75,000, however,
this has been reduced to £38,000 due to funding provided by Transport Scotland.  There is
no available budget for this work.  Funding would need to be covered from general
slippage in the capital plan for 2025/26 and 26/27, which will result in increased financing
costs.  There is no revenue budget for this increase, therefore, savings will be needed in
2026/27 and 2027/28 to accommodate this. 
One off Costs:
Service
Area
Budget Budget
Years
Proposed
Spend this
Year
Virement
From
Other
Comments
Bridges £538,000 2025/26
and
2026/27
£100,000   
Page 22

Page 23

Annually Recurring Costs:
Service
Area
Budget With
Effect
From
Annual
Net
Impact
Virement
From (if
applicable)
Other
Comments       
7.5 Risk 
As owner of the Spey Viaduct, the Council has a duty to make it safe.  If this is not done the
Council could be held liable for injury to people or damage to property as a result of not
undertaking this duty. 
The removal of the spans from the river carries significant risk and the total cost will not be
known until a methodology has been developed and a quantified risk register has been
agreed with the contractor.  
7.6 Staffing 
Staff required to facilitate this work will be resourced from within the Design Consultancy
Section.  
7.7 Best Value and Transformation 
N/A.  
7.8 Property 
The viaduct is in the ownership of the Council.  
7.9 Information Communications/Technology/Digital 
N/A.  
7.10 Equalities, Social Inclusion and Economic Impact 
Local businesses may be affected by the temporary closure of this route. 
7.11 Climate Change and Biodiversity Impacts 
All licences and approvals from environmental regulators will be applied for before works
are undertaken.  Officers will try and recycle any salvageable material during the works. 
Page 23

Page 24

8. CONSULTATION  
8.1 This report has been prepared in consultation with Executive Director for Economy,
Enterprise and Operations, Head of Operations and Environment, Chief Financial Officer,
Service Manager Legal Services, Services Manager People Management, Equal
Opportunities Officer, Service Manager Democratic Services and Andrew Miller, Principal
Planning Officer (Acting) and any comments made have been incorporated into the report.  
9. BACKGROUND PAPERS       
Page 24

Page 25

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
Page 25

Page 26

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
OS Six Inch: 1888-1915
Source: Reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland Page 26

Page 27

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
OS 25 Inch: 1892-1905
Source: Reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland Page 27

Page 28

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
OS 1:1250/1:2500: 1944-1974
Source: Reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland Page 28

Page 29

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
OS 1/1000: 1949-1974
Source: Reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland Page 29

Page 30

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
1985?
Source: © Aberdeenshire Archaeological Service Page 30

Page 31

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
1993
Source© Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 31

Page 32

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
1994
Source© Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 32

Page 33

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
1997
Source© Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 33

Page 34

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2000
Source© Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 34

Page 35

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2009
Source: DP 075571 © Crown Copyright: HES Page 35

Page 36

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2018
Source: © Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 36

Page 37

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2019
Source: © Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 37

Page 38

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2021
Source© Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 38

Page 39

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2022
Source: © Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 39

Page 40

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2023
Source: © Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 40

Page 41

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2024
Source: © Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 41

Page 42

Observed River Spey Channel Movement at Garmouth Viaduct though Time 
2025
Source: © Crown Copyright: Moray Council Page 42

Page 43

MORAY COUNCIL
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
DIRECT SERVICES
Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001
Document History and Status
Rev Date Description Prepared Checked Reviewed Approved
P01 19 Dec 2025 Draft for Comment G. Dudgeon P. McKenna C. Coupar P. McKenna
P02 22 Dec 2025 Final G. Dudgeon P. McKenna C. Cardno P. McKenna
Page 43

Page 44

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Page i
MORAY COUNCIL
Project No: B234M200
Document Title: Garmouth Viaduct Site Inspection Report
Document No.: B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001
Revision: P02
Document Status:Final
Date: 22 December 2025
Client Name: Moray Council
Project Manager: Colm Smyth
Author: Grant Dudgeon
Jacobs UK Ltd
95 Bothwell Street,
Glasgow, G2 7HX
Scotland.
T +44 (0) 141 243 8000
www.jacobs.com
© Copyright 2025 Jacobs U.K. Limited. The concepts and information contained in this document are the property of Jacobs. Use or copying of
this document in whole or in part without the written permission of Jacobs constitutes an infringement of copyright.
Limitation:  This document has been prepared on behalf of, and for the exclusive use of Jacobs’ client, and is subject to, and issued in accordance with, the
provisions of the contract between Jacobs and the client.  Jacobs accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for, or in respect of, any use of, or reliance
upon, this document by any third party.
Page 44

Page 45

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Page ii
Contents
1. Project Information ..................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Background and Purpose of Visit .................................................................................. 1
2. Site inspection ............................................................................................................ 2
2.1 Viaduct History .............................................................................................................. 2
2.2 Site Inspection Observations ......................................................................................... 2
3. Recommendations ...................................................................................................... 4
3.1 Short-term recommendations ........................................................................................ 4
3.1.1 Public Safety ................................................................................................................. 4
3.1.2 Bathymetric survey ........................................................................................................ 4
3.1.3 Trial Pit (Pier 1) ............................................................................................................. 4
3.1.4 Archive Records ............................................................................................................ 4
3.2 Longer-term recommendations ..................................................................................... 5
3.2.1 Coring ........................................................................................................................... 5
3.2.2 Intrusive investigations .................................................................................................. 5
Appendix A. Site photographs, 18 December 2025
Page 45

Page 46

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Page 1
1. Project Information
1.1 Introduction
Jacobs has been commissioned by Moray Council to provide engineering support in respect of the
Garmouth Viaduct which suffered a partial collapse of two of the western approach spans. The
structures carries the Speyside Way, a walking, wheeling and cycling route, which has now been
closed to the public. This report presents the observations of an initial joint inspection carried out
upon the old railway bridge spanning the River Spey at Garmouth on Thursday the 18 December
2025. In attendance were Kim McGowan (Moray Council), Ben Starkie (Water Rescue Scotland)
and Grant Dudgeon (Jacobs).
1.2 Background and Purpose of Visit
During the early hours of 13 December 2025, Span 2 and 3 on the viaduct’s western approach
collapsed into the river Spey, Figure 1 refers.
Figure 1: Garmouth Viaduct Collapse
The purpose of the site visit was to approach the collapsed section of the bridge as closely as safety
allowed and to visually inspect the intact piers where possible. The partially collapsed section is
located either side of Pier 2 on the upstream side, as illustrated in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Garmouth Viaduct naming Convention
Page 46

Page 47

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Page 2
2. Site inspection
2.1 Viaduct History
Constructed between 1883 and 1886, the viaduct was originally designed to carry the Moray Coast
Railway across the River Spey and its adjoining floodplains on a single track, approximately 1.6km
south of the coastline. The structure has an overall length of about 290metres, with its central span
formed by a wrought-iron lattice bow girder measuring approximately 107metres. This is flanked on
each side by three parallel-sided lattice girder approach spans, also formed in wrought-iron.
The historical records advise that the seven spans are supported upon piers comprising twin clad
masonry columns, which in turn are supported upon cast-iron caissons filled with concrete and
founded upon bedrock at depths ranging from 7.6 to 10.7metres. The caissons of the central Span
4 are thought to extend around 23metres.
After the rail line was closed in 1968, the structure later became part of the Speyside Way, a walking,
wheeling and cycling route linking Spey Bay in the northeast to Garmouth in the west.
2.2 Site Inspection Observations
The observations under this section are supported by photographs in Appendix A.
The bridge was approached from the western Garmouth side with access onto the river bank
achieved by descending the side of the abutment. From there it was possible to walk to the two
columns of the Pier 1. Close inspection of this pier noted it to be in good condition with no obvious
signs of distress and continues to support both ends of the first collapsed span (Span 2). Between
the upstream and downstream columns close to the water level, there was a mass concrete infill
observed to be hexagonal in shape. This appeared to be non-structural and not physically connected
to the columns, but instead filled the gap between them (Photos A-1, A-3, A-8 & A-15 refer). It is
likely that the primary purpose of the infill may be to prevent debris building up between the columns.
Below this hexagonal shaped concrete infill, there is a concrete plinth of unknown depth (Photos A-
5 & A-7 refer) which extends in plan beyond the footprint of the columns by approximately 300mm
on each side. The plinth could not be seen beyond the upstream and downstream sides of the
columns. It is presently unclear whether this plinth functions as a foundation between the caisson
piles and the masonry clad piers, or is present to support the mass concrete hexagonal infill. Both
the plinth and infill were observed to be made from similar concrete. It is possible that this mass
concrete infill has been added after construction of the bridge.
From Pier 1, it was possible to access the large island gravel bank immediately downstream of the
bridge and from there, get close to the collapsed columns of Pier 2 (Photos A-9 & A-10 refer). The
watercourse at this location was observed to be very deep and presently functions as a barrier to
Page 47

Page 48

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Page 3
reaching the downstream column of Pier 2. This element whilst still standing was observed to be
inclining at an angle and continues to support the end of the fallen girder of Span 2 (Photos A-9 &
A-10 refer). Structurally, this situation is extremely unstable, as any movement of the column or the
partially supported girder could result in total collapse of both into the river Spey. The collapsed
upstream column of Pier 2 was neither accessible nor visible during the inspection as it was below
water level. Localised turbulence on the upstream side of the Pier 2, appears to indicate the
approximate location of the fallen column.
Walking further east along the downstream island gravel bank, it was possible to get closer to Pier
3 and the intact main arch span. Unlike Span 2, Span 3 was observed to be more stable given both
ends by Pier 2 were within the watercourse and relatively level to one another (Photo A9 refers).
The columns of Pier 3 were noted to be significantly larger than those of the western approach
columns and appeared to be in reasonable condition whilst still supporting both ends of the fallen
Span 3 (Photos A-9 & A-11 refer). A large crack in one of the masonry columns of Pier 3 was
observed, however, this was previously identified during an earlier inspection carried out by Moray
Council (Photo A-13 refers), and may therefore be considered longstanding and not contributing to
the collapse of the approach spans. The water channel at this location was noted to be very deep
and prevented a closer inspection.
The inspection team moved to the east side of Garmouth Viaduct but as access was limited,
observations could only be made from the river bank adjacent to the east abutment. A deep water
channel prevented any crossing to Piers 6, 5 or 4. From the river bank the same construction details
as noted on the West side of the structure were also observed, i.e. mass concrete infill between the
each of the piers columns (Photos A-14, A-15 & A-16 refer). A visual inspection observed all the
piers up to the main arch span to be vertical and true and the soffits of the girders to be in a horizontal
in plane with no obvious deviation or displacement up to and including the main span.
Some general observations:
The flow rate of the river varies from span to span, from being almost still to rapid with
turbulence (Photos A-14, A-17 and A-18 refer).
The condition of the columns above the water level appeared to be good, although a close
inspection within touching distance was only possible at Pier 1 on the western side
The condition of the main structural elements of the remaining non collapsed girders appears
to be good, although a close inspection within touching distance was only possible at the first
and last spans by the abutments.
Based upon the foregoing a number of short and long term recommendations are proposed under
Section 3 of this report.
Page 48

Page 49

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Page 4
3. Recommendations
3.1 Short-term recommendations
3.1.1 Public Safety
The site should be fenced off and secured to prevent access across and under the structure. Signage
advising the public of the potential dangers should also be erected on the approaches to the Viaduct
and at local parking sites frequently used by the general public.
3.1.2 Bathymetric survey
It is recommended that a bathymetric survey of the area around the fallen Pier 2 should be carried
out as soon as possible by a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) to capture detailed data using point
cloud sonar survey. This should include the location of the fallen column and the river bed profile
including below water foundation elements in a 50 metre radius from Pier 2. The results of this survey
should assist in informing the cause of the failure and the strategy going forward, helping to identify
options for the future of the structure.
The inclined column of Pier 2 supporting the partially collapsed Span 2, should be considered as too
dangerous for divers or manned surface vessels.
A bathymetric survey should also be carried out on the remainder of the structure to determine the
river bed profile and this should extend approximately 100 metres upstream and downstream of the
bridge. The frequency of this survey should reflect the consistently changing flow paths of the river
Spey at this location.
3.1.3 Trial Pit (Pier 1)
Due to the unknown depth of the concrete plinth beneath the hexagonal infill concrete, a localised
trial pit to determine the depth of this element would be beneficial. This is best undertaken on the
accessible Pier 1. Once the soffit of this element is known, the pit should be back filled.
In addition, the outline of this plinth at ground level should be exposed, measured and sketched, to
inform its extent in plan and relative to the Pier 1 columns.
3.1.4 Archive Records
It is understood that there are no “As Built” records to hand for Garmouth Viaduct, a search of the
councils archives and alternative archive repositories such as but not limited to National Records of
Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland, Network Rail, etc, should be carried out to obtain as much
information as possible about the substructures columns and foundations.
Page 49

Page 50

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Page 5
3.2 Longer-term recommendations
3.2.1 Coring
The pier columns are clad in ashlar masonry however the internal make up of the individual columns
is unknown. It is recommended that following analysis of the bathymetric survey results,
consideration should be given to extracting column cores, in order to determine the full make up of
these elements. This should be undertaken by a specialist contractor.
3.2.2 Intrusive investigations
It is not clear how the piled foundations interact with the columns or if there is a pile cap that supports
them. Consideration should be given to investigating the accessible westernmost pier, to determine
the full depth and make up of the plinth supporting the mass concrete infill between the columns.
Page 50

Page 51

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Appendix A
Appendix A. Site photographs, 18 December 2025
Page 51

Page 52

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Appendix A
Figure A-1: Hexagonal concrete infill between Pier 1 columns Figure A-2: View of span 2 from behind Pier 1.
Figure A-3: Pier 1 Hexagonal concrete infill Figure A-4: View of submerged concrete plinth.
Page 52

Page 53

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Appendix A
Figure A-5: Photo of submerged concrete plinth. Figure A-6: Soffit of span 2
Figure A-7: Photo of submerged concrete plinth below hexagonal concrete infill. Figure A-8: Hexagonal concrete infill in direction of the West Abutment
Page 53

Page 54

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Appendix A
Figure A-9: Elevation span 3 (LHS) and span 2 (RHS) from downstream. Figure A-10: Close up of the inclined pier 2 supporting the partially collapsed span 2
Figure A-11: General view of the top of Pier 3 taken from the downstream side. Figure A-12: Photo of the Pier 3 columns taken downstream.
Page 54

Page 55

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Appendix A
Figure A-13: Photo of the 2023 cracked Pier 3 Figure A-14: Downstream view of the viaduct from the east embankment
Figure A-15: Concrete infill between pier 6 Figure A-16:Turbulance by pier 5.
Page 55

Page 56

Garmouth Viaduct
Site Inspection Report
B234M200-J-GAR-STR-REP-SIR-0001 Ver P02 Appendix A
Figure A-17: General view of turbulence within the river Spey Figure A-18: View of the turbulence in the river Spey
Page 56

Page 57

Page 57

Page 58

Page 58

Page 59

Page 59

Page 60

Installation of 1.8m h ig h palisad e fencing
(or sim ilar approved ) b etw een th e
b rid g e parapet w alls, approx. 4.6m in long .
Installation of 1.8m h ig h palisad e fencing
(or sim ilar approved ) b etw een th e
b rid g e parapet w alls, approx. 4.6m in long .
nstallation of 1.2m h ig h 3-rail post-and -rail
fencing across th e railw ay em b ankm ent
and extend ing 1.5m d ow n th e slope to
prevent access along th e railw ay line
tow ard s th e b rid g e
nstallation of 1.2m h ig h 3-rail post-and -rail
fencing across th e railw ay em b ankm ent
and extend ing 1.5m d ow n th e slope to
prevent access along th e railw ay line
tow ard s th e b rid g e
nstallation of 1.2m h ig h 3-rail post-and -rail
fencing across th e railw ay em b ankm ent
and extend ing 1.5m d ow n th e slope to
prevent access along th e railw ay line
tow ard s th e b rid g e
Wife o' Beith
Pottie Burn
Railw ay Arch Pool
Shing le
Spey Viad uct
Shing le
Shing le
Shingle
-Location and T ype of Safety Fencing Garm outh Viad uct. 1:3,708 @ A3
© Crow n copyrig h t [and d atab ase rig h ts] 2025 OS AC0000806936 Moray Council. You are perm itted to use th is d ata solely to enab le you to respond to, or interact w ith , th e org anisation th at provid ed
you w ith th e d ata. You are not perm itted to copy, sub -license, d istrib ute or sell any of th is d ata to th ird parties in any form . T h ird party rig h ts to enforce th e term s of th is licence sh all b e reserved to OS.
Page 60