Preparations for the second phase of the £13.2m Kessock Bridge improvement scheme are to start next week.

As a result, BEAR Scotland has said some overnight off-peak traffic management will be required on the bridge between 25 November and 15 December. The work will involve the installation of bridge monitoring equipment as well as other tests on the steel bridge deck, with some of the work being carried out below the bridge.

Phase two of the Resurfacing and Barrier Replacement scheme is due to begin in mid-February 2014 following the successful completion of Phase one in July 2013.

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The preparatory work will require closure of the slow lanes on both the north and southbound carriageways from 7pm until 7am daily between Monday 25 November and Sunday 15 December. Calum Galloway, BEAR Scotland's Bridge Manager for the North West, commented: "These works have been programmed overnight working to minimise delays to the members of the public. We will make sure that the restrictions apply to just one carriageway at a time. These works will not affect peak time traffic and the footpath/cycleway will remain open at all times.

"The next main phase of work on the bridge is planned to start in February next year which will involve a contraflow on the northbound carriageway. These are essential improvements to this well used Inverness lifeline that was built over thirty years ago. Once complete, the works will ensure this vital route remains fit for purpose for years to come."

(JP/IT)