Phase 2 – Kessock Bridge improvements update

Week nine 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 8?

• The removal of the bridge waterproofing and preparation of the steel bridge deck is ongoing.
• Installation of new joint at the south end of the bridge is ongoing.
• The installation of the new joint at the north end has been completed.
• The construction of scaffolding at the east side of the bridge for the cable stressing is ongoing.
• Testing of the steel deck to identify defects or cracks on the surface is ongoing.
• Installation of steel base plates for new safety barrier has been completed.
• Application of the primer for the waterproofing system is ongoing.
• Application of the waterproofing system is ongoing.
• Modification of the existing bridge parapets, to make them cycleway compliant is ongoing.
• Installation of the new safety barrier on both north and south approaches started.

Works planned for the week ahead:

• Works will continue to remove the existing waterproofing on the bridge deck.
• Works continue on the construction of access scaffolding for the cable stressing on the east side of the bridge.
• Works will continue on the installation of the south movement joint.
• Works will continue on the installation of the new safety barrier.
• Works will continue on the modification of the existing bridge parapets, to make them cycleway compliant.
• Works will continue on the application of the primer for the waterproofing system.
• Works will continue on the application of the new waterproofing system.
• Works will begin on the painting of the steel kerbs.

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: “Works are progressing well on site. This week we are continuing to remove the waterproofing on the bridge deck, clean and test the steel. We will start to install the new safety barrier and work on modifications to the existing parapet.

“As ever 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.

7 Apr 2014