Kincardine Bridge | Deck Refurbishment Works

Works to refurbish a section of the A985 Kincardine Bridge deck are set to begin on the night of Monday 7 September.

A 150-metre section of the bridge deck south of the central swing span will receive repairs to the bridge deck, renewal of waterproofing, surfacing, road markings and road studs, as well as improvements to drainage and vehicle safety barriers.

Transport Scotland’s operating company BEAR Scotland will carry out the project, which is anticipated to last for approximately 12 weeks and will require various phases of traffic management, including lane closures throughout and occasional full overnight closures.

Traffic on the bridge will be managed using 24-hour temporary traffic signals.

Footway closures will be required, however access for cyclists and pedestrians will be maintained at all times by keeping the footway on at least one side of the bridge open.

The first full overnight closure to vehicular traffic is planned for the night of 7 September between 20:00 and 05:00.

Anticipated dates for further full overnight closures are as follows:

8 September, between 20:00 and 05:00
16 October, between 20:00 and 05:00
17 October, between 20:00 and 05:00
24 November, between 20:00 and 05:00.
 

During these closures, a diversion route suitable for trunk road traffic will be signposted between Higgins’ Neuk Roundabout and Toll Road Roundabout, where the A985 meets the A977.  This diversion crosses the River Forth via A876 Clackmannanshire Bridge and the A977 Toll Road, adding an estimated 5 miles and 10 minutes to affected journeys.

Consultation has taken place with relevant stakeholders in advance of these works to make them aware of the traffic management arrangements and to minimise any inconvenience.

David Bishop, BEAR Scotland’s South East Unit Bridges Manager, said: “This programme of refurbishment is key to ensuring the structural integrity of this bridge and extending its service life, as well as maintaining road user safety.

“The works have been planned to minimise disruption to road users as far as possible, however some delays are to be expected, especially during peak times.

“Some full bridge closures are unavoidable, however these will be limited to overnight hours to minimise any disruption.

“We thank road users in advance for their patience and understanding.”

All works are dependent on the weather and the existing condition of the structure, which can’t be fully understood until works commence and intrusive investigations are carried out. As such, the programme of works is subject to postponement, cancellation or rearrangement of dates in the event of adverse weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances.