A 1996 photo shows Edinburgh’s North Bridge without current roadworks, sparking nostalgia among residents.
The picture, from January 1996, shows all lanes open where people walked and cars drove freely. The bridge has been under construction since 2018, with the renovation project costing £86 million.
People expect North Bridge to reopen in late 2025. Many remember when the bridge was always open, before someone shared the photo on Facebook and residents responded with their memories. One person called the road surface “beautiful” while others look forward to its reopening.
Another person mentioned past lane closures, remembering frequent disruptions. Currently, traffic can only travel southbound as the northbound lane is closed. The works include several repairs, fixing the bridge’s facades, repainting the steel structure, and improving footpaths.
The council aims to finish major repairs this year. Councillor Jenkinson understands the frustration and thanked locals for their patience. These works will restore the link and preserve the bridge. The project takes longer than expected because the bridge’s age requires specialist work.
Locals have shared opinions for years. One resident felt “infuriated” by the narrowed pavement and mentioned the inconvenience of the works and how crowded walkways frustrated them.