The metal layer of the bridge wall, designed to protect passers by from the rail tracks below, has been pulled apart at the seam leaving a large gap and a sharp surface.

Concerned, Mr Scott got in touch with Network Rail last month to report the damage on the bridge, which crosses the railway line leading to Brook Street.

He said, “I phoned the Network Rail national helpline to report the damage.

“I explained it was a busy route and it would be terrible if somebody or something slipped through the mesh. It is big enough for a small child or a dog to fall through.

“At the same time I wrote to the public affairs manager at Network Rail asking for an urgent repair to be carried out and also mentioned that the damaged mesh is a symptom of the continuing deterioration of the bridge and the time might now be right for its overall refurbishment.”

When the repair work had still not been carried out on the popular walkway a few weeks later, Mr Scott contacted Network Rail again only to be told someone had already attended to the broken covering.

Mr Scott continued, “I phoned the national helpline again on August 10 for an update and I was told the work had been carried out on July 21, the day I initially reported it.

“I informed the customer adviser that this wasn’t the case and I again expressed my concern about the potential for an accident and I was advised that matter would be attended to.”

He added, “Since then I have driven past the bridge every day to see whether it has been fixed and every day it hasn’t been.”

After getting no response from Network Rail on their plans to mend the hazard, a frustrated Mr Scott contacted the Tele.

Councillor Scott also expressed concern to the rail company about the number of weeds growing out of the railway footbridge in Shiell Street, Barnhill.

He claims the walkway, which leads to the Broughty Ferry Nature Reserve, could represent a slip hazard and needs to be cleared.

“I consider these to be two very serious issues and I’m disappointed, although not surprised, about the lack of response from Network Rail,” he added.”

A spokesperson from Network Rail today confirmed they would be sending someone out to inspect the bridge.

“Our records did indicate work had already been completed on the railway bridge wall when it was reported on July 21,” he said.

“However, we will now investigate the issue further and get someone else out to look at the bridge and check it again to get it fixed.”

“Any residents concerned about the overgrowing weeds on the railway footbridge in Shiell Street should get in touch with the Network Rail helpline to voice their complaint on 08457 114141.”