Work on a £30 million package of improvements to M8 White Cart Viaduct, near Glasgow Airport, reaches a significant stage in January when the works will move onto the bridge carriageway.

The project, which is being carried out by BAM Nuttall on behalf of Transport Scotland, has been moving on apace underneath the bridge with strengthening of girders and improved drainage works underway. New internal bridge lighting will also be installed.

Over 95,000 vehicles pass over the M8 White Cart Viaduct per day, making it one of Scotland’s busiest routes. The forthcoming works on the carriageway include strengthening of the bridge half-joints and replacement of the eastbound carriageway expansion joints.

To facilitate these works, average speed cameras will be installed this coming week. The average speed camera’s will, through a maintained 40mph speed limit, provide all motorists and road workers with a safer environment through the works.

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The cameras, supported by Strathclyde Safety Camera Partnership, will be installed during week commencing 13 December and be operational from 20 December. Once the works have been completed, the temporary speed restriction and cameras will be removed.

Traffic management, including overnight lane closures, will also be in place for the installation of the average speed camera system.

Peter Ritchie, Major Bridges Manager Transport Scotland, said: “These bridge carriageway works are a vital part of this multi million pound package of improvements to the Whitecart Viaduct, which forms a key part of the road network around Glasgow Airport.

“By using average speed cameras, we will improve the safety of both road users and workers while we complete this part of the White Cart Viaduct improvements.

“We thank motorists for their patience during these works and to remind them to plan their journey in advance using the Traffic Scotland website, allowing extra time for travelling through these essential works. ”

A spokesman for the Strathclyde Safety Camera Partnership said: "It is essential for road safety that all drivers stay within the reduced speed limits through the roadworks. The purpose of the average speed cameras is to encourage every driver to be aware of the need to slow down. These cameras have been very successful in achieving this at previous roadworks on the White Cart Viaduct and we would expect all motorists to take heed."

Drivers are urged to be patient, allow plenty of time for their journey and plan in advance using the traffic information websites and traffic updates available. iPhone users can download a new free Traffic Scotland / Traveline app.

Work started in July 2010 and is expected to be complete Summer 2011.

(GK)