Traffic on the M90 is now being diverted over the Forth Road Bridge, after the Queensferry Crossing was closed as a safety precaution due to a risk of falling ice.

Transport Scotland’s operating company BEAR Scotland took the decision to close the Queensferry Crossing at 10:20 after ice was observed falling from the bridge’s stay cables above the carriageway.

Motorway traffic was stopped while automated barriers at either end of the Queensferry Crossing were moved into position to redirect the M90 over the neighbouring Forth Road Bridge, with traffic moving again by 10:50.

A reduced speed limit is in force through the automated barriers and on the Forth Road Bridge.

Dave Bishop, BEAR Scotland’s South East Unit Bridges Manager, said: “It takes a very particular combination of weather conditions for ice to form and fall from the Queensferry Crossing’s cables, however we know it is a possibility so we’ve put measures in place to protect road users and minimise the impact.

“Over the course of 2023 we installed and trialled a new automated barrier system to reduce the time it takes to divert traffic onto the Forth Road Bridge, and this has made a significant difference by avoiding the need for traffic to divert via Kincardine.

“We’re grateful to road users for their patience and understanding during this severe weather event. We’ll issue further updates in due course.”