Bridge raised over safety fears

Vehicle strikes on the Arkleston bridge have caused traffic disruption

A bridge over the M8 motorway near Glasgow Airport is to be raised after a series of traffic collisions prompted fears over public safety.

A number of high vehicles have struck Arkleston bridge since its construction in 1968.

The most recent, in September last year, saw a lorry carried on a flatbed trailer smash into the bridge before dropping onto the carriageway below.

Transport Scotland is to spend £1.2m to raise the structure by 15cm.

The work will also see the installation of a new solid central pier, new safety barriers and parapets.

The bridge will also be repainted, straightened, strengthened and waterproofed.

Prevent collisions

Transport Scotland said raising the bridge in this way would bring it into line both with current standards and other bridges along the M8.

The agency's senior engineer, Andrew Brodie, said: "This is the first major overhaul of Arkleston Bridge in over 40 years and the work we do now should ensure it continues to operate safely for many years to come.

"Raising the whole bridge will help prevent the types of collisions which have occurred in the past and have caused damage to the bridge beams.

"This is a major programme of works which will bring long-term benefits for road users through an anticipated reduction in disruption."

Work to raise the bridge is due to start on 17 July and is scheduled to last for eight weeks.

A system of traffic management measures will be introduced for the duration of the works.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version