Iconic bridge will span generations

By the time most readers have got their hands on today’s copy of The Courier, one of the most impressive feats in the history of Scottish engineering will have been opened to the public.

In the early hours of this morning, the cones blocking access to the Queensferry Crossing were removed and the first of thousands of vehicles which will use the span today made their way across.

Let there be no mistake, this was a massive undertaking which has been completed in the nick of time.

The wear and tear caused by an ever-increasing volume of traffic across the Forth Road Bridge could not have been handled indefinitely.

As was shown when damage was discovered and the road bridge was forced to shut in December 2015, the effect of prolonged closure was catastrophic for drivers, businesses and the environment.

Decisive action was taken in the wake of that closure and immediate plans put in place for the Queensferry Crossing.

It has not been easy – the elements have conspired against workers and they have also been hit by tragedy during the building period.

Deadlines have been missed for its opening but it has been delivered under budget and without the major, prolonged disruption many had feared.

It should stand through the ages as an example of the best in Scottish ingenuity and determination.