BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, were set to carry out essential maintenance work on the A9 Strathsteven Bridge. The bridge is located approximately 2 miles northeast of Golspie.

This essential maintenance work was originally scheduled to commence on Monday 26 May for 5 weeks. However, an occupied Tawny Owl nest was found as part of the ecology checks. The proximity of the nest to the works meant that much of the planned works have had to be postponed until the nest is no longer in use. This is to ensure no disturbance or damage to the nest while it is in use in line with legal requirements (Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981).

The works involve structural investigation, repairs to defective concrete, replacing the bridge deck expansion joints and resurfacing the road.

This essential maintenance work is now scheduled to recommence on Monday 11 August and is expected to be completed by Monday 17 September. Works will generally be carried out at night between 8pm and 6am.

To protect both road users and the workforce, this single carriageway section of the A9 will be reduced to one lane over the bridge. Two-way temporary traffic lights will be in place 24 hours a day for the full duration of the works. For some overnight works, a convoy traffic management system will be required to safely escort road users through the site.

Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North West Representative, said, “These works are being carried out to maintain Strathsteven Bridge and ensure that further, more extensive repairs are avoided in later years.”

“We will do everything possible to complete this essential maintenance as quickly and safely as possible. We thank all road users and the local community for their patience in advance.

“Please plan ahead by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up to date journey information and leave some extra time to complete journeys.”

Real time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland on www.traffic.gov.scot, X @trafficscotland or on the mobile site my.trafficscotland.org.