Successful completion of temporary structural repairs has allowed engineers to safely reopen Scotland’s Forth Road Bridge to traffic two weeks earlier than expected.

 

The bridge had been closed early in December following the discovery of defective steelwork and was originally scheduled to reopen this week.

 

Interim repair measures carried out by operating company Amey involved installation of a steel splint to fix a cracked member at the crossing’s north east tower. This member has since been thoroughly load tested and monitored using strain gauges capable of providing accurate data on strains, stresses and rotations within this area of the bridge.

 

Splints have also been installed on seven additional members as a precaution.

 

Amey's account director responsible for the bridge Mark Arndt said: “Better than expected weather conditions and round the clock work by our teams allowed us to progress with the detailed inspection, scaffolding construction and actual repairs quicker than originally anticipated.”

 

However the Forth Road Bridge is not due to reopen for heavy goods vehicles – which account for 32% of the weight normally carried by the structure – until mid February when a permanent repair will be in place.

 

This has prompted concern from the Freight Transport Association’s director of policy Karen Dee, who said: “This is a devastating blow for our members. The additional costs incurred by the 80km diversion are significant, especially when contracts have already been signed and there is no opportunity to recoup the money.”

 

(Photo: Forth Road Bridge)