A £2m Transport Scotland project to improve the M8 from Newhouse to Shotts will include the first ever use of new surfacing materials that could reduce the need for future roadworks.

Sections of the works, which start on 30 September for five weeks, involve a trial of new surfacing materials. If successful, the trial materials will provide a more durable surface than currently used, thereby extending the life of the trunk roads and reducing the need for future works.

The project forms part of Transport Scotland's ongoing M8 improvement strategy to ensure that the motorway, which was built in the 1970s, continues to operate safely for years to come.

Stephen Breslin, Transport Scotland's project manager said: "Our overall aim is to make surfacing materials more sustainable by improving their durability. Together with Transport Research Laboratory we are trialling this material in UK conditions and if successful it will bring real benefits through longer service life, less traffic disruption and reduced carbon emissions."

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John Murphy, BEAR Scotland said: "This section of the M8 has lasted well but now is the time to go in and reconstruct it. Work will be carried out as quickly as possible to minimise disruption to motorists.

"We are working closely with Transport Scotland on the resurfacing trial, using innovative technologies to extend the life of the trunk roads, thereby reducing the need for future maintenance."

The works on a 1.8 mile (3km) section of the eastbound carriageway between Junction 6 Newhouse and Junction 5 Shotts, will see the reconstruction of both traffic lanes and the hard shoulder.

The traffic will be managed using a contra-flow system which will maintain two lanes of traffic in both directions during the working day, including the morning and evening peak periods. The contractor will reduce this to one lane in the westbound direction at certain off-peak times. A reduced speed limit of 40mph will be in place at the works site, for the safety of motorists and the workforce.

For the safety of drivers and road workers alike, the eastbound slip roads at Junction 6 will close on two weekends from 8pm on Friday to 6am on Monday. Further notification and advance diversion signage will be erected to advise the travelling public of the actual closure dates.

(GK/JM)