Work starts to replace joints which allow Forth Road Bridge to expand and contract

Work has started to replace the main expansion joints in the northbound carriageway of the Forth Road Bridge.
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It is due to be completed before next winter.

The bridge will remain open in both directions to buses, taxis, and other vehicles permitted to use the public transport corridor, via a contraflow on the southbound carriageway.

Work to replace smaller joints in the west footpath will continue until May.

Picture Michael GillenPicture Michael Gillen
Picture Michael Gillen
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The east footpath will remain open to cyclists and pedestrians.

Chris Tracey, BEAR Scotland’s south east unit bridges manager, said: “The main expansion joints allow the Forth Road Bridge to expand and contract in response to wind, temperature and traffic loading.

"They performed well since the bridge opened in 1964 but had reached the end of their service life after over 50 years of heavy use.”

Work on the southbound carriageway was completed last year.

The replacement of the main expansion joints forms part of a significant investment by Transport Scotland to strengthen and refurbish the bridge.

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