Nethy Bridge

What residents say about their community

Nethy Bridge also known as the ‘Forest Village’ has many historical landmarks and qualities making it an attractive place for residents and visitors. Abernethy Old Kirk, Castle Roy, four Thomas Telford bridges and industrial archaeology sites, all complement the farming landscape, iconic wildlife, Speyside Way and stunning forest environment. In addition the village has a shop and post office, busy community centre, primary school, Abernethy Outdoor centre, an active parish church (Church of Scotland), local butcher and a ranger service (Explore Abernethy), in addition to the river Nethy which is easily accessed via the community created riverside walks.

At the heart of the village is a resourceful community who are committed to improving the quality of life and opportunities for the current and future generations of Nethy residents. This is reflected in the number and variety of community groups that exist, which look to work together and are well supported. The community’s website (Nethybridge.com) and quarterly newsletter (The Nethy) help to keep residents informed of events, activities and village news, whilst also encouraging visitors to stay. The Abernethy Games are a good example of this community’s successful cooperation, as the annual event goes from strength to strength attracting thousands of spectators each year from home and abroad.

Nethy Bridge’s concern for the future lies in what it sees as the risk of unsympathetic housing developments in scale and design. Residents are keen for any building development that does occur, to be done using local trade and skills and in keeping with the existing dwellings, – scattered within woodland and avoiding the hard landscaping that seems to be packaged in with new development today eg soft verges not hard edges next to the roadside.

The continuation of traditional businesses such as farming, building and landscaping will hopefully all continue to provide employment opportunities for the younger generation, but this can’t happen if there is an accommodation shortage due to lack of access to land for building, low wages, high cost of living and an affordable housing shortage due to the current level of 2nd homes being taken up in the community. The ability to expand small business opportunities to support local tradesmen is also one of the key factors that will determine the future sustainability of the village.

Residents would not like Nethy Bridge to be very different from the peaceful yet attractive, socially active village it currently is. It is hoped that in future, people will still enjoy fishing on the Spey, the forest area will be well managed, it may be darker due to less street lighting, the stunning views will still be appreciated for all to enjoy.

Links 

To find out more about Nethy Bridge, general information and activities, visit the Nethy Bridge Community website or Facebook page. To see what projects the Nethy Bridge community are taking forward, have a look at their latest Community Action Plan

Newtonmore community groups

Nethy Bridge Community Council
Nethy Bridge Community Centre
Abernethy Highland Games
Abernethy Primary Parent Council