Work is being carried out on the Queensferry Crossing in preparation for the launch of the bridge's southern viaduct.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon visited the site to see the preparatory works. On a previous visit, the Minister witnessed the first coffer dam sections - which is used to lay the foundations for the bridge's central towers - leave the dock in Rosyth to take up a position in the Firth of Forth.

Ms Sturgeon's visit this week revealed that large sections of the deck are being made, ready to be pushed out across the viaduct piers above the water.


Commenting on the project, Ms Sturgeon said: "When I visited the site last November I saw the structures being dispatched to start work on the tower foundations.

"Since then the world's largest underwater concrete pour has taken place and now the towers are emerging above the water.

"This fantastic progress is being matched on the land. Looking at the 100 metre long section of deck really shows you just how vast the final Queensferry Crossing will be.

"It's a credit to the hard work of those involved in delivering the project to have made such progress so far.

"The FRC project has benefited 365 Scottish firms that have won 90% of supply orders and nearly 60% of sub contracts worth over £140 million."

(JP/IT)