Drivers face 60-mile diversion during bridge work

A project to keep one of Scotland’s busiest swing bridges open “for years to come” will get under way later this month.

Works costing more than more than £500,000 will replace the rear roller track and install a new electrical duct on the Fort Augustus Swing Bridge, on the A82, and are due to run for 10 weekday nights from January 28.

During the works the bridge will be closed and a 60-mile diversion will be in place between 7pm and 6am via Invermoriston and Invergarry on the A887 and the A87.

A spokeswoman for road maintenance company Bear Scotland said: “To keep road workers as well as motorists safe throughout the upgrades, an overnight road closure will be in place during each night of the project.

“To ensure safe access to the components the bridge will need to be swung open during the works resulting in the full closure of the A82.

“A diversion route using the A87 and A887 will be signed from Invermoriston and Invergarry for both northbound and southbound traffic.

“All traffic management will be removed during the day.”

Commenting on the proposals, Eddie Ross, from Bear Scotland’s north-west team, said: “These essential bridge maintenance works will allow our teams to replace the rear roller track and install a new electrical duct ensuring the bridge continues to function safely for years to come.

“The works have also been programmed to take place outwith the busy summer months and when the canal is closed to boat traffic, preventing further disruption.

“Our teams will do all they can to complete the essential works as quickly and safely as possible at each bridge.

“We thank road users for their patience in advance and encourage them to plan their journey in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website and allow some extra time to complete their journeys.”