A96 Fochabers New Bridge | Refurbishment Works

UPDATE (31/07/2026): Scheme extension and postponement of overnight road closures

While significant progress has been made on the bridge refurbishment, it is often the case with complex structural repairs that the full extent of any deterioration only becomes apparent once road surfacing is removed and the underlying structure is exposed.

As work has progressed on the eastbound carriageway, we have identified a greater level of deterioration within the concrete than was originally anticipated. This includes more extensive corrosion of the reinforced steel rebar within the structure. In addition, service ducts that we had hoped to retain and reuse have deteriorated to a condition that now requires their replacement.

Whilst works continue on the eastbound carriageway, we are proceeding on the assumption that similar levels of deterioration may be present on the westbound carriageway. However, the full extent of any defects will not be known until the concrete is exposed and detailed inspections can be carried out.

Based on our current assessment, the additional unforeseen repairs are likely to extend the programme, with completion of the works now expected by Monday 12th October.

We appreciate the impact this may have on the local community, businesses and road users. Please be assured that every effort will be made to identify opportunities to accelerate the programme and minimise disruption wherever possible.

As a consequence of the additional repairs identified, the overnight road closures originally planned between Friday 31st July and Tuesday 11th August have been postponed. Revised dates for these closures will be communicated once the updated programme has been finalised.

Finally, we would like to emphasise that the local businesses in Fochabers remain open and continue to welcome customers throughout the works. We encourage everyone to support them during this period.

Amey will continue to keep stakeholders informed through relevant updates as works progress.

Amey is undertaking a £1 million refurbishment to Fochabers New Bridge on the A96 in Moray between Monday 6th July and Saturday 19th September.

The essential maintenance, which Amey is undertaking on behalf of Transport Scotland, will help ensure the continued safety and integrity of the structure, which carries the A96 over the River Spey between Mosstodloch and Fochabers.

The programme of work includes resurfacing of the carriageway, replacement of the bridge deck waterproofing, drainage improvements, and renewal of the bridge expansion joints, along with repairs to a section of the parapet.

To ensure the safety of roadworkers and motorists temporary traffic lights will be in place on the bridge 24/7 for the durations of the works.

A series of overnight closures of the A96 (8pm to 6am) will also be required to safely carry out waterproofing and resurfacing works on the carriageway. These closures are planned for:

Monday 6th July (reopening at 6am on Tuesday 7 July).
 

Friday 31st July to Thursday 11th August (final reopening at 6am on Wednesday 12th August).
 

Saturday 29th August to Wednesday 2nd September (final reopening at 6am on Thursday 3rd September.)
 

Friday 11th September to Friday 18th September (final reopening at 6am on Saturday 19th September).
 

The following signed diversion routes will be in place during the overnight closures.

Northbound traffic from Keith that would normally travel on the A96 northbound over Fochabers New Bridge to Elgin can continue westbound on the A95 towards Craigellachie. At the A95’s junction with the A941 traffic can turn right and follow the route to Elgin. Southbound traffic can follow the route in reverse.

Local access will be maintained on the A96 up to the closure points on both the north and southbound sides of the closure.

Although the majority of works will be carried out during daytime hours, with waterproofing and resurfacing undertaken at night, the temporary traffic lights will remain in operation at all times due to the nature of the works.

Please note, all schemes are weather dependent and may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather conditions are not favourable.