A BRIDGE in Argyll and Bute is set to close this month for “key” repair works, with a 90 mile detour put in place.
BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, are set to carry out works to repair the A828 Connel Bridge, which spans Loch Etive, from September 16.
The road maintenance firm said work will be carried out between the hours of midnight and 6am, with the project expected to be completed by September 20.
The A828 will initially be closed for periods of up to 30 minutes, with waiting vehicles then being allowed to cross before any further closures.
These works will be taking place on Connel Bridge on the following nights:
- Tuesday 16 September between 12 midnight and 6am*
- Wednesday 17 September between 12 midnight and 6am
- Thursday 18 September between 12 midnight and 6am
*This closure will only be required if weather delays are forecast later in the week.
Following the first phase of closures, a longer two-hour period of closure will then be carried out.
An alternative route suitable for trunk road traffic will be available from Connel to North Connel via the A85, A82, and A828, adding an estimated 90 miles and two hours to journey times, BEAR Scotland said in a statement.
Waiting vehicles will again be allowed to cross before any further closures.
These works will be taking place on Connel Bridge on the following nights:
- Friday 19 September between 12 midnight and 6am
- Saturday 20 September between 12 midnight and 6am*
*This closure will only be required if weather delays are incurred during the previous closures.
BEAR Scotland said in a statement that all works are dependent on the weather and the existing condition of the structure, which will not be fully determined until works commence and investigations are carried out.
The firm added that the programme of works is subject to postponement, cancellation, or the dates rearrangement in the event of adverse weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
Access to emergency services will be maintained at all times.
Euan Scott, BEAR Scotland’s North West representative said: “This repair project taking place on the A828 Connel Bridge is key to ensuring the structural integrity of this bridge and to maintain its service life for years to come.
“Some full closures of the road are required to ensure the safety of our workforce and road users. These will be limited to overnight [and] early morning hours to minimise any disruption to the local community as far as possible.
“We thank road users in advance for their patience and understanding while our teams carry out these essential works.”
