Initial findings from engineers point to soil erosion as the likely cause behind the partial collapse of a historic Scottish viaduct over the weekend.
What Happened to the Spey Viaduct?
The 19th-century Spey Viaduct, also known as the Garmouth Viaduct, partially collapsed into the River Spey on Sunday, 14 December 2025. The iron girder structure, with a 350ft span over the main channel, was a popular route for walkers and cyclists, forming part of the Speyside Way long-distance path.
Moray Council confirmed that an initial inspection by engineers suggests the failure was due to "scour". This is a process where fast-moving water erodes soil, gravel, or sand from around a bridge's foundations.
Inspection History and Immediate Response
The council stated that when the viaduct was last inspected by a specialist contractor in 2023, there was no evidence of this scour damage. A general visual inspection was also carried out by the council's qualified bridge inspector in May 2025.
However, the fast-flowing nature of the River Spey, Scotland's fastest river, meant underwater areas and foundations could not be safely assessed during these routine checks. The authority noted the river's flow path appears to have changed over the last year, potentially altering the impact on the bridge's piers.
In response to the collapse, the local authority is making the area safe with clean-up works and installing more robust fencing. The public is being urged to avoid the vicinity. Police confirmed there were no reports of injuries.
Community Reaction and Long-Term Future
The collapse has saddened the local community and officials. SNP Moray MSP Richard Lochhead said the community would be "heartbroken" by the loss of the "iconic structure". Councillor Shona Morrison also expressed devastation, noting the viaduct's special place for her family and many others.
Moray Council has said a more detailed inspection and assessment by a specialist engineer will be arranged, hopefully before Christmas or early in the new year. The long-term future of the bridge—whether repair or replacement—will be considered in 2025, with options presented to councillors. Any work will be subject to available finances, and it is not yet known how long the bridge will be closed.
The viaduct was constructed between 1883 and 1886 to carry the Moray Coast Railway. Moray Council has maintained it since the railway line closed in 1968.
