A Perth bridge that was the subject of criticism from local dog owners will be adapted to allow greater access.
New steps were built at the Tay Viaduct Bridge in October to replace an older set in need of repair.
The pedestrian path – located adjacent to the rail track – links the city centre to Dundee Road, with the new steps also connecting the bridge to Moncrieffe Island.
Perth and Kinross Council spent £220,000 was spent replacing the stairway connected to the island, which is mainly used by golfers and allotment owners.
However, local dog walkers hit back at the metal grate design that was installed, claiming it is now a no go area for their pets.
The council has said it will cover the steps with anti-slip cover sheets.
Katie McCandless-Thomas, founder of Facebook page Dog Friendly Perthshire, said: “A local dog walker asked the council and they said they would cover the steps.
“But that was over a month ago and it’s still as it is.
“I walked my dog Baxter on Tuesday to Moncrieffe Island. We are lucky that he is small and I could carry him down, but for people with bigger dogs they can’t do that.
“Also, if people are using dogs for accessibility they won’t be able to walk over the grates.
“My dog’s paws are small and would slip right through but even for bigger dogs like Labradors, the grates would go through their paw and hurt their toes.
“I completely understand that new steps were needed, but the work could have been completed at the same time.
“Moncrieffe Island is used by a lot of dog walkers and the steps should be built for everyone.”
Since the stairs were installed, the council said it has been pushing to have sheets covering them.
It added that the completion of this work lies solely in the hands of contractors.
A spokesperson said: “The new Tay Viaduct Steps are currently open for public use.
“Perth and Kinross Council has always planned to install anti-slip cover sheets onto the steps and landings which will cover the voids in the mesh, allowing dogs to walk on the new steps without issue.
“The council is currently waiting on confirmation from its contractor when this work will be undertaken.”
