Anger over green light for traffic lights on Argyll’s ‘Bridge over the Atlantic’
Clachan Bridge, a 233-year-old crossing in Argyll known as the 'Bridge over the Atlantic,' is set to receive traffic lights despite local opposition. Critics argue the installation will harm the bridge's heritage status, endanger pedestrians, and damage tourism. The Argyll and Bute council says the lights are needed for road safety, though only three minor collisions have been recorded there in 25 years.
- ▪Clachan Bridge, built in 1792, connects the mainland to the Isle of Seil and is a designated tourist attraction.
- ▪The Argyll and Bute council plans to spend at least £35,000 on traffic lights despite recording only three slight collisions at the bridge between 1999 and 2024.
- ▪Local councillor Julie McKenzie's petition against the traffic lights gathered 1,500 signatures, triple the local population.
- ▪Historic Environment Scotland was not consulted before work began, despite the bridge's heritage significance.
- ▪Police Scotland supports the safety initiative but has not provided guidance on impacts to pedestrians, cyclists, or tourists.
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Clachan Bridge, a 233-year-old crossing on the Argyll coast, has been known as the 'Bridge over the Atlantic' since the early 19th century. Photograph: Carlton ReidView image in fullscreenClachan Bridge, a 233-year-old crossing on the Argyll coast, has been known as the 'Bridge over the Atlantic' since the early 19th century. Photograph: Carlton ReidScotlandAnger over green light for traffic lights on Argyll’s ‘Bridge over the Atlantic’ Plans to install traffic lights on Clachan Bridge will ruin tourist attraction and endanger pedestrians, critics warnCarlton ReidTue 5 May 2026 03.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleTraffic lights are to be installed beside the scenic Clachan Bridge on Scotland’s wild Argyll coast despite fears it will be a “desecration” of a nationally-significant…
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