Essential bridge maintenance works on the A82 Fort Augustus Swing Bridge will begin on Monday 28 January, being carried out overnight for ten consecutive nights.

The project, costing approximately £500,000, will involve essential mechanical maintenance including replacing some of the technical components, which are vital to ensure the swing bridge continues to operate effectively when opening and closing across the Caledonian Canal.

The project will take place between 7pm and 6am each night for ten nights starting on 28 January, with no works taking place on Saturday or Sunday nights.

To keep roadworkers as well as motorists safe throughout the upgrades, an overnight road closure will be in place during each night of the project. To ensure safe access to the components the bridge will need to be swung open during the works resulting in the full closure of the A82. A diversion route using the A87 and A887 will be signed from Invermoriston and Invergarry for both northbound and southbound traffic. All traffic management will be removed during the day.

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Consultation has been carried out with Emergency Services, the Local Authority, local businesses, transport operators, residents and other relevant stakeholders to make them aware of the works and share information about the project.

Commenting on the proposals, Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland's North West Representative said: "These essential bridge maintenance works will allow our teams to replace the rear roller track and install a new electrical duct ensuring the bridge continues to function safely for years to come.

"The traffic management is essential to keep everyone safe during the project. We have planned the works to take place overnight to minimise disruption for road users. The works have also been programmed to take place outwith the busy summer months and when the canal is closed to boat traffic, preventing further disruption.

"Our teams will do all they can to complete the essential works as quickly and safely as possible at each bridge. We thank road users for their patience in advance and encourage them to plan their journey in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website and allow some extra time to complete their journeys."