New Forth crossing costs £50m lower than estimated

The Queensferry Crossing is set to be completed by the end of 2016. Picture: Neil Hanna

The revised budget, down to an upper limit of £1.4 billion from £1.45 billion, was announced during a site visit this morning.

Officials said reductions were the result of delivering construction milestones, successful project management and good market conditions.

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Scotland’s largest transport infrastructure project for decades is due to be completed by the end of 2016.

Ms Sturgeon said: “It is a very positive news to be able to announce a further £50 million worth of savings from Scotland’s biggest infrastructure project in a generation.

“We have already seen last year’s savings from the FRC benefit other projects, allowing work to start early on the dualling of the A9 for example.

“The progress made since construction started in June 2011 means we have delivered £195 million worth of savings.

“The sound management and delivery of the scheme should be warmly welcomed.

“Not only is the project delivering value for money it is also benefiting the Scottish economy with subcontract and supply orders for Scottish companies and over 1,000 people currently directly employed on site.

“We recognise there are still challenges to overcome in the years ahead but it is very pleasing to report that with the first sections of deck being placed just last week, the project remains on schedule to be complete by the end of 2016.”

• New Forth bridge named Queensferry Crossing