2-333-099 - Peter Thompson/Heritage Images

Skye Bridge, Highland, Scotland. This bridge connecting the Isle of Skye to the Scottish mainland was opened in 1995. It carries the A87 road across Loch Alsh. Prior to the construction of the bridge, Skye and the mainland were only connected by a ferry service. The bridge aroused great controversy in Scotland and on Skye in particular because of the high toll levied by its private operators. Travellers had no alternative but to use the bridge as the ferry service had been discontinued as soon as it was completed. In December 2004 the bridge was purchased by the Scottish Executive for £27 million and the tolls were abolished.