Works begin today, Monday 9 August, for up to six weeks

Essential bridge deck refurbishment works on the A86 Calder Bridge west of Newtonmore are underway for six weeks which will help ensure the bridge remains safe for all road users.

The project will involve specialist teams carrying out various repairs to the structure including rewaterproofing and resurfacing the deck, upgrading the drainage system, replacing the existing expansion joints and reconstructing the footways. This will make sure the bridge remains safe and operational for years to come.

The bridge improvements began today, Monday 9 August, and are programmed to take place over six weeks.

To ensure the safety of the workforce and motorists, temporary traffic lights will be in place for the duration of the project, including periods outwith working hours.

Consultation has taken place with all relevant stakeholders in advance of the bridge improvements to make them aware of the traffic management arrangements.

Strict physical distancing protocols will be in place to ensure all site personnel remain safe once the project gets underway.

Commenting on the proposals, Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland’s North West Representative said: “This bridge maintenance project will help ensure that the A86 Calder Bridge near Newtonmore remains in a safe working condition for years to come.

“The traffic management planned is essential to ensure the safety of our workforce as well as road users. Our teams will do all they can to complete the project as quickly and as safely as possible.

“We thank motorists for their patience in advance while our teams carry out these repairs on Calder Bridge and encourage road users to plan their journeys in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up to date journey information and allow some extra time to reach their destination.”

Real time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland on www.trafficscotland.org, twitter at @trafficscotland or the new mobile site my.trafficscotland.org.