Guardbridge roadworks cause chaos.

Drivers vent anger as lengthy queues build up after little warning of the disruption

Fife Council apologised to motorists caught up in lengthy tailbacks as bridge works expected to take several months began at Guardbridge.

There was little warning of the disruption at the New Bridge on the A91 between St Andrews and Dundee, with even bus operator Stagecoach East Scotland stating it was not informed.

Drivers vented anger as they were stuck for 30 minutes in queues reported to stretch as far as Kincaple and Leuchars.

One lane was closed to traffic to allow erection of scaffolding under the bridge, which is likely to take six to eight weeks.

During the main phase of the 21-week job both lanes will be open but with a 20mph speed limit.

Fife Council has appointed contractor Castle Group Scotland Ltd to make necessary concrete repairs to the bridge.

Murray Scott, lead consultant for bridges and structures, said: “Work commenced today with traffic controls operating during the off-peak period.

“We apologise for the unexpected delay caused to traffic.

“We also apologise for the lack of advance notice and thank members of the public for their patience and co-operation during the initial site set-up.

“Unfortunately, it was essential that works started as quickly as possible to comply with environmental restrictions for works in the Eden Estuary.

“We will ensure that the contractor does their upmost to minimise future disruption.”

The initial phase of work to construct an access scaffold beneath the deck is expected to take up to eight weeks, during which time there will be off-peak lane closures between 9.30am and 3.30pm.

Mr Scott said the contractor had been instructed to operate traffic lights manually to reduce delays.

He also said two-way traffic would be reinstated once the set-up phase was complete.

He added: “The main works are programmed to last for approximately 21 weeks and are essential to prolong the life span of the bridge.”

Stagecoach East Scotland said its X59, X24 and 99 service had been affected, and delayed by up to 50 minutes.

It also told customers on Twitter that it was unaware of the works and was attempting yesterday to get information.

The bridge works will see repairs made to the underside of the arches, with cathodic protection installed. cpeebles@thecourier.co.uk

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We apologise for the unexpected delay caused to traffic. We also apologise for the lack of advance notice. LEAD CONSULTANT MURRAY SCOTT

Picture: Gareth Jennings. Traffic queued up to Strathkinness Road from the works at Guardbridge.