BEAR Scotland have announced a major project for the M9 Hill Bridge, starting on 22 November and expected to continue for 23 weeks.

The works include the replacement of bridge bearings and safety barriers that have reached the end of their design life.

For the safety of workers and road users, a 50mph speed limit will be in force through M9 Junction 8 for the duration of the works, from Monday 22 November 2021 until the end of April 2022.

One lane in each direction of the M9 at Junction 8 will be closed from 20:30 until 06:00 each night during the works.

Two lanes in each direction will remain open on the M9 during daytime hours, however the hard shoulders will be closed 24 hours a day until mid-January, after which lane two in each direction will be closed with traffic running on lane one and the hard shoulder.

-- Advertisement --

The eastbound M876 will be closed on four separate nights during the project, while the bridge deck is jacked up to allow the old bearings to be removed. The first such closure will take place from 20:30 until 06:00 on the night of Thursday 2 December. A diversion will be signposted from M876 Junction 2 to the M9 Junction 7 via Bellsdyke Road, the A905 and Bowtrees Roundabout, adding an estimated 3.5 miles and 6 minutes to affected journeys.

Chris Tracey, BEAR Scotland's South East Unit Bridges Manager, said: "The bearings and parapet system on the M876 Hill overbridge are nearing the end of their design life. It is essential that we replace them now to ensure the long-term safety of the structure.

"Speed restrictions, overnight lane restrictions and hard shoulder closures are essential for safety, however we've planned the works to ensure that the M9 has two lanes open in each direction during the day and the westbound M876 will be unaffected.

"It will be necessary to close the eastbound M876 on four separate nights when we jack up the bridge deck to allow the old bearings to be removed. The first such closure will take place on the night of Thursday 2 December and we'll share details of the other three dates once these are confirmed.

"We thank motorists in advance for their patience. We would ask them to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journey and comply with speed limits to protect our workforce."

Consultation has taken place with all relevant stakeholders including local authorities and Police Scotland in advance of these works to make them aware of the traffic management arrangements.