Plans for memorial to worker on bridge

Queensferry Crossing chiefs are discussing plans for a memorial to a worker killed during construction – as a petition demanding the honour passes 1,500 signatures.

Banksman John Cousins was killed last year in the only fatal accident during the building of the giant structure.

So far, 1,566 people – many of them bridge workers past and present – have signed a petition to have a memorial placed on the bridge on its opening day.

Transport Scotland said talks are under way with the family of the 62-year-old from the Northumberland area about a memorial at the bridge.

A Transport Scotland spokesman said: “We understand that FCBC (Forth Crossing Bridge Constructors) has been in discussion with John Cousins’ family for some time regarding both a suitable memorial and whether they will attend any of the opening events.

“Obviously this is a deeply sensitive matter for them and we would like to respect their wishes for privacy at this time.”

The Change.org petition, set up by local campaigner Martin Keatings, calls for the memorial to also include a worker who died of natural causes during construction.

Mr Cousins died when he was hit by the boom of a crane.

The bridge will be opened by the Queen on September 4.