Phase 2 – Kessock Bridge improvements update
The works represent an investment of £13.2m from Transport Scotland. Week two of the twenty week programme continues to see contra-flow on the northbound carriageway as well as a reduced speed limit of 30mph.
What has been done during Week 2?
- The removal of the bridge waterproofing and preparation of the steel bridge deck is on-going.
- Removal of the steel plates for the old safety barrier is on-going.
- Removal of the movement joints at the north and south abutments has been completed.
- Preparation for the installation of the new joints has started with hydro-demolition, a technique using high pressure water jets to break up concrete.
- The erection of scaffolding at the east side of the bridge for the cable stressing has started.
- Testing of the steel deck has started using MPI (Magnetic Particle Inspection) techniques. This is a non-destructive testing technique used to identify defects or cracks on the surface of the steel bridge deck.
Works planned for the week ahead:
- Works will continue to remove the existing waterproofing on the bridge deck.
- Works continue on the erection of access scaffolding for the cable stressing on the east side of the bridge.
- Works will continue in preparation for the installation of the new movement joints.
- Works will continue to remove the existing barrier from the footway and start the installation of the new barrier.
- Works will start on the modification of the existing bridge parapets, to make them cycleway compliant.
Traffic Management and Diversions:
- The southbound carriageway and footpath/cycleway are closed.
- A contra-flow system is in operation on the northbound carriageway.
- Pedestrian and cyclist diversions are in place on the northbound footpath/cycleway.
Calum Galloway, BEAR Scotland’s Bridges Manager for the North West Unit, said: “This week we are continuing to remove the waterproofing on the bridge deck, clean and testing the steel. We will be starting to install the new the barrier and be working on modifications to the existing parapet.
“Works are progressing well on site. As always we would like to thank road users who use this route for their on-going patience and cooperation during these improvement works. If those travelling are able to use other methods of transport, like taking the bus, train or even car sharing, then we would urge them to do so.”
Motorists driving in and around Inverness can access up to the minute journey time information at www.trafficscotland.org. Further journey planning information is also available on Twitter and via the Travelline Scotland/Transport Scotland travel app.