Work is officially underway this month on a new £5.2 million footbridge spanning the Levenmouth Rail Link and heritage railway between Kirkland and Mountfleurie in Fife.
The Mountfleurie footbridge will provide a safe, accessible route for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users, while offering stunning views across the river valley and surrounding landscape.
Delivered by Network Rail and funded by Fife Council, the project builds on the momentum of the Levenmouth Rail Link’s successful reopening last year. That milestone saw £116 million invested by the Scottish Government to reconnect Levenmouth to the national rail network for the first time in over half a century.
Construction begins today and is expected to take seven months, with the bridge set to open to the public in March 2026.
Tom McPake, senior programme manager at Network Rail Scotland, said: “The Mountfleurie footbridge is designed to make everyday journeys easier, safer and more enjoyable for people living in and around Leven - whether it’s getting to school, work, or simply heading out for a walk or cycle.
“We understand construction work can cause some disruption, and we’re grateful for the patience and support of the local community while we deliver this important project. Once complete, we know the bridge will be a valued part of daily life for many decades to come.”
The new bridge will also connect with the proposed Levenmouth Connectivity Project, part of Fife Council’s broader initiative to promote greener, healthier travel options across the region.
Councillor Colin Davidson, convener of Fife Council’s Levenmouth Area Committee, said: “We’re delighted to see work starting on the Mountfleurie Bridge which is more than just a piece of infrastructure - it’s a vital link that will reconnect communities across Levenmouth and a key part of the wider active travel network.
“As work begins, we’re taking another significant step toward a more accessible, better-connected area where people can move more freely between neighbourhoods, schools, services, and of course the new rail link.
“This project is a real example of how local investment can open up new opportunities for everyone, and it goes without saying that we appreciate people’s forbearance while the construction work is carried out.
"I also want to thank the Fife Council Transportation and Estates staff for their hard work and diligence in delivering this project as it was an extremely complex and difficult process."
The first phase of construction will involve installing a temporary overbridge across the Steelworks Brae bridge. This structure will support construction traffic for both the Mountfleurie footbridge and the River Leven Park project. The installation is expected to take around two weeks to complete.
Image credits: Network Rail
