Moxon Architects has unveiled the Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge, a stunning stone and steel structure in the Cairngorms National Park of the Scottish Highlands. This new bridge, shortlisted for the 2025 RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award, replaces a historic crossing while blending modern design with local heritage, with the winner set for announcement on December 5.
Design That Honors Tradition
The Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge draws direct inspiration from its 250-year-old neighbor, the original Gairnshiel Bridge. Moxon Architects aimed to create a “sibling” structure that echoes the old bridge’s slender arch and tapering walls, but with fresh materials like recycled local granite and steel for added strength.
Studio founder Ben Addy explained how the team focused on a functional yet graceful form that fits the rugged landscape. The bridge redirects traffic from the aging original, easing wear and preserving history. Built to handle modern loads, it spans the River Gairn and serves as a vital link for local communities and tourists exploring the Cairngorms.
This project stands out for its eco-friendly approach, reusing granite from nearby sources to cut waste. Engineers worked closely with Aberdeenshire Council to ensure the design respects the area’s natural beauty while meeting safety standards.
Path to the Prestigious Award
The RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award, started in 2002, celebrates top architectural works across the nation. This year’s shortlist features four diverse projects, highlighting Scotland’s mix of rural and urban innovation.
- Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge by Moxon Architects: A modern infrastructure gem in the Highlands.
- Fairburn Tower restoration by Simpson & Brown: Reviving a 16th-century structure in a remote spot.
- The Nucleus Building by Sheppard Robson: A cutting-edge university facility in Edinburgh.
- Union Terrace Gardens renovation by Stallan-Brand and LDA Design: Breathing new life into a Victorian public space in Aberdeen.
These entries show architecture’s role in blending old and new, from historic towers to green public areas. Judges praise the shortlist for projects that work well with other fields like engineering and landscape design.
The award has a rich history of spotting game-changers. Past winners include the Scottish Parliament Building in 2005 and the Maggie’s Centre in Kirkcaldy in 2006, both known for bold yet practical designs. For 2025, the focus on sustainable builds like the Jubilee Bridge ties into global trends toward eco-conscious architecture.
Building Process and Challenges
Construction kicked off in 2022 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, hence the name. The team faced tough Highland weather, with heavy rains and winds testing the timeline. Despite this, the bridge opened in late 2023, ahead of schedule, thanks to smart planning.
Key stats from the project highlight its scale and smarts:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 65 meters |
| Materials | Recycled granite, weathering steel |
| Cost | £3.8 million |
| Construction Time | 18 months |
| Daily Traffic | Up to 500 vehicles |
Local leaders, including Aberdeenshire Councillor Geva Blackett, hailed the bridge as a boost for tourism and safety. It now handles heavier loads, like farm equipment and tour buses, without straining the old structure.
Workers sourced materials locally to keep the carbon footprint low. This choice not only saved costs but also supported nearby quarries hit hard by recent economic shifts.
One big hurdle was balancing modern needs with heritage rules. The design team held community meetings to gather input, ensuring the bridge feels like part of the landscape rather than an outsider.
Impact on Local Communities
The bridge has already changed daily life in the Cairngorms area. Residents report smoother commutes, cutting travel times by up to 10 minutes on busy days. Tourists flock to the site, drawn by its blend of history and sleek lines.
This project fits into broader efforts to upgrade Scotland’s rural infrastructure. Similar works, like the recent Pennyburn Bridge in Northern Ireland, show a trend toward award-winning designs that solve real problems. In Scotland, it aligns with national goals to protect natural sites while improving access.
Economically, the bridge sparks growth. Local businesses see more visitors, from hikers to history buffs. It also sets a model for future builds, proving that grace and function can go hand in hand.
Looking Ahead to the Winner
As the December 5 announcement nears, excitement builds around which project will take the top spot. The Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge stands as a strong contender, praised for its thoughtful nod to the past while eyeing the future.
This award not only honors great work but also inspires new architects. With climate change in mind, projects like this push for smarter, greener designs across the UK.
Share your thoughts on this bridge or the award shortlist in the comments below. Which project do you think should win? Spread the word by sharing this article with fellow architecture fans.
