BEAR Scotland has announced a programme of refurbishment works on the B7057 bridge that carries the M8 Junction 5 eastbound off-slip and on-slip over the motorway near Shotts.

To allow resurfacing works to be carried out safely, the B7057 bridge will be closed to all traffic between 20:00 and 06:00 on the nights of Sunday 18 September, Wednesday 05 October and Friday 21 October.

Eastbound traffic on the M8 wishing to exit at Junction 5 will be directed to continue onwards to turn at Junction 4A and return westbound to exit at Junction 5.

Traffic wishing to join the M8 eastbound at Junction 5 will be directed to follow the M8 westbound to turn at Junction 6.

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The remainder of the works from Monday 19 September to Thursday 20 October will be carried out using lane closures only. Traffic on the B7057 bridge will be controlled by temporary traffic lights 24 hours a day.

Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times and all traffic management will be removed outwith working hours.

Chris Tracey, BEAR Scotland's South East Unit Bridges Manager, said: "Essential maintenance works are planned on the bridge that carries the eastbound on and off slips over the motorway at M8 Junction 5 Shotts.

"We'll carry out as much of the works as possible using lane closures only, however it will be necessary to close the bridge completely on three nights and to have temporary traffic lights in place throughout the project.

"We're grateful to road users and the local community for their patience and understanding."

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead before setting out by checking the Traffic Scotland website www.trafficscotland.org for up-to-date travel information and allowing extra time for their journey.