One of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks has been designated as a world heritage site by UNESCO.
The Forth Bridge has become the sixth site in Scotland to be recognised in such a way, joining Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns; the Heart of Neolithic Orkney; New Lanark; the Antonine Wall; and the island of St Kilda.
The 125 year old structure was granted special status at a meeting of the World Heritage Committee in Bonn on Sunday 5 July following a bid led by the Forth Bridges Forum, established by the Scottish Government to promote the three Forth bridges
Louise Downing, Project Manager for Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage has welcomed the decision, she said: “The Forth Bridge is a fantastic example of Scotland’s built heritage and very deserving of world heritage status. Resourcing Scotland’s Heritage and Arts & Business Scotland are delighted the bid was successful and we’d like to congratulate all those involved in securing world recognition for such a unique and iconic structure.”