The second phase of works on the Kessock Bridge upgrade commenced on 10 February.

On Monday, it was reported that throughout the 20-week programme, a contraflow system would be in place on the northbound carriageway.

Today, BEAR Scotland has now issued an update regarding the works that have been carried out on the £13.2m investment to date.

Preparation works have been underway on site for four weeks ahead of the phase two start date and this involved the installation of scaffolding underneath the bridge deck.

A comprehensive programme to engage with the public and business community has also been carried out.

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Elsewhere, the work planned for the this week includes installing temporary netting on the existing east parapet to stop grit and debris from the works falling from the bridge, while the existing safety barriers from the central reservation and southbound footpath will be dismantled and removed.

The existing rail that runs along the top of the parapet for the length of the bridge will also be removed and a survey of the surfacing levels of the bridge will be undertaken. In addition, works will commence to remove the existing surfacing and waterproofing from the southbound carriageway and footpath/cycleway while work will start on the construction of an access scaffold for the cable stressing operation on the east side of the bridge.

The work will mean that traffic management and diversions will be in place for motorists.

Calum Galloway, BEAR Scotland's Bridges Manager for the North West Unit, said: "This project is complex but will bring real long term benefits. The public was extremely patient during the first phase works and we hope for their continued support again this year."

(JP/IT)