Fears have been raised that the Forth Bridge’s potential as a world heritage site “could be left untapped”.

Network Rail has been working on proposals for the Forth Bridge Visitor Experience for several years but concerns have now been raised about a lack of funding.

The blueprint, which includes plans for a viewing platform from the top of the north side of the bridge and a guided walk to the top of the south side, has proven popular with the public in early consultations.

Councillor Lesley Laird, deputy leader of Fife Council, and Stephen Doran, who chairs the Fife Economy Partnership, are concerned no cash had been allocated to progress the project.

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Mr Doran said: “Although plans have been created by Network Rail that set out options for a visitor experience, we are increasingly concerned that there appears to be no funding earmarked for progressing these plans.

“We fear that the potential of the Forth bridge as a world heritage site could be left untapped.”

The council and Mr Doran have called for a meeting with Network Rail’s chief executive, Mark Carne, to confirm the organisation’s position and to establish a working group to drive the project forward.

Ms Laird said: “The world heritage inscription of the Forth bridge has the potential to generate significant economic opportunities, particularly in the tourism sector, both locally and nationally.

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“It is vital that the viewing platform and visitor centre are built to further attract visitors, increase employment and grow tourist spend in the kingdom.

“The world heritage inscribed bridge provides a gateway to the north of Scotland, raising the profile of Fife as a destination.”

She said Scottish Government support would be “essential” for the project, which also includes plans for education facilities alongside catering, retail and a special function venue.

Network Rail said it was still consulting on the project and revising its proposals.

A Network Rail spokesman said: “We are continuing to revise our designs for the visitors centre, consult with local communities affected by the proposals and build our business case for investment in the project.

“We will contact Fife Council direct to discuss any concerns.”