Phase 2 – Kessock Bridge Improvements Update
The second phase of the main Kessock Bridge upgrade started on 10 February 2014. The works represent an investment of £13.2m from Transport Scotland. Week seven 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 6?
• Painting of the parapet posts before installation of new top rail to make it cyclist compliant is complete.
• The removal of the bridge waterproofing and preparation of the steel bridge deck is ongoing.
• Preparation for the installation of new joints at the north and south ends of the bridge is ongoing.
• 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 is ongoing.
• Application of the primer for the waterproofing system is ongoing.
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 in preparation for the installation of the new movement joints.
• Works will continue on the installation of the new 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 in the footway.
• Works will continue on the application of the new waterproofing system.
• Works will begin on the installation of the movement joint at the north end.
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. As always we would like to thank road users who use this route for their on-going patience and co-operation during these improvement works.
“This week we are continuing to remove the waterproofing on the bridge deck, as well as clean and test the steel to ensure it is fit for purpose. We will also be starting to install the new the barrier and be working on modifications to the existing parapet.”
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.
ENDS