Preparations for the second phase of the £13.2m Kessock Bridge improvement works are to begin today (13 January).

BEAR Scotland has said the works, which will last for four weeks, will see scaffolding installed underneath the bridge deck. To allow this to take place, the local authority has said it will be necessary to close the west footpath and cycleway. Diversion routes will be in place. The main northbound carriageway of the bridge will also see some restrictions to allow materials to be delivered safely. These restrictions will be kept to a minimum to avoid delays.


The second phase of the main Kessock Bridge upgrade is due to commence on 10 February 2014 and will last for approximately 20 weeks.

Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland Operating Company Representative for the North West, said: "As a lifeline route which carries the A9 dual carriageway trunk road across the Beauly Firth at Inverness, we are absolutely committed to minimising the disruption when these essential improvements are being made to the Kessock Bridge.

"The public were extremely patient during phase one of the works and we hope for their continued support as we go into phase two.

"There will be a reduced speed limit of 30mph on the bridge from 10 February 2014 to keep both road users and workers safe. This will lead to delays, and as with phase one, motorists will be encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel into the city centre and to consider using public transport, car sharing, cycling or walking, where possible."

(JP/CD)