Works to strengthen the bridge towers on the Kessock Bridge are under way after a delay to the £2 million series of “essential” works was announced in October 2024.
Works are underway on the Kessock Bridge and are set to last until October 2025. Picture: James Mackenzie
This will involve the closure of one side of the cycleway/footway – which will be switched to the other side midway through the works – as well as several overnight closures with works expected to last until October 2025.
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Delivered by BEAR Scotland on behalf of Transport Scotland, the project involves structural strengthening within all four steel towers to ensure meet loading standards for major bridges.
Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s north west representative, said: “These essential works on Kessock Bridge will strengthen the steel structure, upgrade our wind measurement equipment and we will also take the opportunity to improve access and safety inside the towers for our teams.
“We will do everything possible to complete this essential strengthening project as quickly and safely as possible. We thank all road users and the local community for their patience in advance.
“Please plan ahead by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up-to-date journey information and leave some extra time to complete journeys.”
The works will also see the installation of new anemometers to measure wind speed and aid bridge management during stormy conditions.
The carriageway will remain fully open in both directions during the day, however intermittent overnight lane closures between 7pm to 6am on a single lane on the A9 dual carriageway over Kessock Bridge for material deliveries are expected during the following dates:
Northbound Lane
· 14 January
· 10 February
· 30 May
Southbound
· 3 June
· 22 October
During these overnight lane closures, a 30mph speed restriction may be required, however “delays are expected to be minimal” according to BEAR Scotland.