Delays during A9 bridges work

Improvements will cost £690,000

Two bridges on the A9, near Dunblane, are in line for a £690,000 improvement project – but the scheme will lead to delays for drivers.

Work will be carried out on the Auchinlay Rail Bridge and Allan Water Bridge, which carry the A9 over the Stirling-to-Perth rail line and Allan Water.

Expansion joints – which have been in place since the bridges’ construction in 1990 – have deteriorated and will be replaced.

BEAR Scotland, who are carrying out the project, say it will last for seven weeks and done in to two phases, with the first due to get underway later this month.

A spokesperson said the replacement of the joints was complex and large machinery was required to help remove the old fittings across both carriageways. The new joints will then be set in place using concrete to repair the bridge deck, with both bridges then waterproofed and resurfaced.

The A9 will remain open throughout the duration of the project, but a contraflow system will be in operation during the repairs.

Phase One will begin on the northbound carriageway with single lane traffic in each direction travelling on the southbound carriageway.

Phase Two will repeat the process, with works on the southbound carriageway and traffic being switched to the northbound carriageway.

First phase of the project is expected to begin on Monday, November 19, with traffic management remaining in place until Wednesday, December 12.

The second phase of the project is expected to begin on Monday, January 14, and traffic management will remain in place until Monday, February 4.

BEAR Scotland’s North East Representative, Andy Thompson said: “Over the years the joints have deteriorated and no longer function properly, and this project will allow us to replace the joints which will ensure the bridge continues to operate safely for years to come.

“The project has been split into two phases to reduce the overall impact of the work on road users, with teams removing all traffic management from mid–December until after the festive period to keep disruption to road users at a minimum.

“We’ve planned these works to be carried out under a contraflow system to keep everyone safe during the project, and although some minor delays are anticipated our teams will do all they can to carry out the work as quickly and safely as possible. We advise road users to abide by all traffic or speed restrictions put in place during the work for their safety, and to use both lanes when queuing to help reduce any congestion.

“We thank road users for their patience during these essential works and encourage them to plan their journeys in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website before they travel and allowing some extra time to reach their destination.”