New attractions hit hard by conditions

Two of Scotland’s most high-profile building projects fell victim to Storm Ali yesterday.

The V&A Dundee was forced to close its doors early – just days after its public launch – due to safety fears, while the Queensferry Crossing was partially shut for the first time since it opened in August last year.

Bosses at the £80 million V&A museum announced they would be turning away visitors from 3.30pm yesterday following “exceptionally high” gusts of wind around the entrance.

The showpiece building on the Dundee waterfront opened to the public in general on Monday after a weekend of special events in the city.

People were seen struggling to walk in the area and an ambulance was called after one man fell over. A Scottish Ambulance spokesman confirmed he was not seriously injured.

A V&A spokeswoman said: “Due to exceptionally high winds we closed to new visitors. Those already in the museum were able to stay until 5pm and enjoy their visit.

“Extra staff were deployed to assist those leaving the building.”

Commuters in and out of Fife had to contend with bridge closures to the north and south of the kingdom – with the Queensferry Crossing closed to high-sided vehicles for the first time after winds of 77mph were recorded.

The Forth and Tay road bridges were closed to all traffic for much of the day. Gusts measuring 102mph were recorded over the Tay, resulting in damage to the structure.