Kessock Bridge roadworks to cause major disruption

The Kessock Bridge carrying the A9 across the Moray Firth. Picture: Tim Riches [http://www.flickr.com/photos/tgr/] (CC)

Transport Scotland will be carrying out essential works to the Kessock Bridge for the next four weeks in order to ensure its reliable service for the next thirty years.

Work was carried out on the southbound carriageway last year, and the northbound road will now be subject to a 20-week programme of improvements.

The road surface of the bridge is reaching the end of its working life and the need for ad-hoc repairs is becoming increasingly disruptive to traffic.

Engineers this week start preparations for phase two of the £13 - £18 million project.

It will be necessary to close the west footpath and cycleway to allow this to take place safely. Diversion routes will be put in place for both cyclists and pedestrians.

The main northbound carriageway of the bridge will also see restrictions to allow materials to be delivered safely. The second phase of resurfacing due to being on 10 February.

Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland Operating Company Representative for the North West said: “As a lifeline route which carries the A9 dual carriageway trunk road across the Beauly Firth at Inverness, we are absolutely committed to minimising the disruption when these essential improvements are being made to the Kessock Bridge.

“The public were extremely patient during phase one of the works and we hope for their continued support as we go into phase two.

“There will be a reduced speed limit of 30mph on the bridge from 10 February to keep both road users and workers safe.

“This will lead to delays, and as with phase one, motorists will be encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel into the city centre and to consider using public transport, car sharing, cycling or walking, where possible.”

The Kessock Bridge opened to traffic in 1982. Approximately 30,000 vehicles cross the bridge per day.