Bridge ice fix ‘will take time’

● MSPs told ‘no off-the-shelf solution’ to Queensferry Crossing closure issue

MSPs have been told it will take time to find a solution to prevent ice from building up on the Queensferry Crossing.

Mark Arndt from the Amey Forth Bridge Operating Company said work was being carried out to discover “permanent viable solutions” to the problem – which resulted in the £1.35 billion crossing being closed to all vehicles for two days.

The bridge was shut after ice that had built up in wintry weather conditions fell from the cables, damaging eight vehicles.

Mr Arndt said: “We are also actively looking for permanent viable solutions to mitigating ice forming in the first place, that will take time through research and development and the like.”

He spoke as MSPs on Holyrood’s rural economy and connectivity committee questioned Transport Secretary Michael

Matheson and bridge officials about the closure.

Labour transport spokesman Colin Smyth told them: “It is clear that there is a problem here you haven’t got a solution to yet.”

Enhanced monitoring arrangements have been put in place on the bridge for safety so it can be closed again if there is another ice build-up.

Mr Matheson told the committee: “There isn’t an off-the-shelf solution for bridges that experience this problem.”