IT’S not a bridge too far after retrospective planning approval was granted for a Tweeddale river crossing.

A vehicular bridge over the Drumelzier Burn at Broughton was erected without prior planning approval from Scottish Borders Council.

The bridge serves solely the property known as The Kennels Cottage, located to the south of Drumelzier.

The applicants, London-based Arabella and Camilla Lukas, went ahead with the work as they were unaware planning agreement was needed.

Now SBC has approved a retrospective application.

In his report approving the structure, Ranald Dods, SBC planning officer, states: “The site is within the Upper Tweeddale National Scenic Area (NSA) and adjacent to right of way BT67.

“Prior to the bridge being installed, the house was served only by a footbridge a short distance downstream.

“The bridge span is approximately 7m long and is 3m wide. It is supported at each end on concrete supporting walls dug into the banking.

“The appearance of the steel is somewhat stark and had this not been in retrospect, I am likely to have required that the bridge be coloured in order to better integrate it with the surroundings.

“Despite the stark appearance, the integrity and overall objectives of the NSA are not affected by this bridge nor will the adjacent right of way be adversely affected. As such, it can be accepted on balance.”