Skye Bridge

The Skye Bridge spans Loch Alsh in the Highlands, linking the Isle of Skye to the mainland via Eilean Bàn. It is a single-span concrete arch bridge supported by two piers resting on caissons in the loch. The crossing forms part of the A87 and replaced the old ferry route between Kyle of Lochalsh and Kyleakin. Road and rail connections to Kyle of Lochalsh were built in the late 19th century, but plans for a bridge were delayed due to the island’s small population. By 1971, two 28-car ferries carried over 300,000 vehicles annually, causing long queues. The bridge was designed by Miller-Dywidag in collaboration with Arup and built under a Private Finance Initiative scheme. Construction began in 1992 and was completed in 1995, costing £27 million. The toll controversy drew national attention, with round-trip charges reaching £11.40 by 2004. Protests and non-payment campaigns lasted nearly a decade, with over 500 arrests and 130 convictions. Local MP Charles Kennedy and the Scottish Liberal Democrats supported toll abolition. Visitors now cross a smooth concrete arch with views of Loch Alsh and the surrounding hills. The bridge connects to well-organised approach roads and marks the start of journeys across Skye. Eilean Bàn, a small island used as a stepping-stone, adds a quiet natural contrast to the engineering. The crossing remains the main year-round route to Skye, replacing the old ferry service.