£4m Kessock Bridge strengthening works ‘ahead of schedule’, Highland motorists using the A9 told by Bear Scotland
Essential strengthening works on the Kessock Bridge are progressing well after engineers revealed they were running ahead of schedule.
Motorists using the busy A9 crossing will have noticed contractors working on the sides of the bridge in recent months, after engineers began a £4 million project in January.
This includes “structural strengthening”, modifications to provide “assisted climb and rescue capabilities” for workers inside all four the pylons, and the installation of new wind gauges on the bridge.
The work has mostly been confined to the cycle/footpath sections - where the pylons and bridge sides are accessed - with the western one closed to the public for several months. It had been planned to reopen in December, but this looks set to happen sooner - with the work now swapping to the eastern footway from September 4.
Confirming the switch, Bear Scotland said that work on the project is currently ahead of schedule and on track for the planned completion date of autumn next year.
“The works have progressed well and are slightly ahead of programme,” said James Duthie, principal bridge engineer. “As such, the footway closure will now be switched to the east side of the bridge on September 4, with a diversion provided to safely direct pedestrians and cyclists to the open west footway/cycleway.
“Additional intermittent closures to the footway may be required to facilitate future works, however, any further changes to footway closures will be communicated by letter and press release.
“Intermittent night-time carriageway lane closures will be required for material deliveries, however these will be planned to limit any disruption to bridge users.
“A reduction in the speed limit to 30mph will also be required over short periods throughout the programme of works. This is to protect workers undertaking works at height on the external faces of the pylons.”