Disruption expected due to A96 works

TRAFFIC on the main Aberdeen to Inverness road will face disruption at Keith due to urgent bridge-strengthening works.

The A96 trunk road will be reduced to a single lane at Haughs Rail Bridge for four weeks from September 14, with full overnight closure of the A96 on the bridge over the next four weekends.

Substandard masonry on the 150-year structure has led to monthly inspections over the past year. Now, an urgent £370,000 strengthening scheme, which will see stainless steel anchors used to secure the masonry arch, is being implemented by Transport Scotland.

North East operating company representative with BEAR Scotland, Eddie Ross, said works are essential for the continued safe use of the bridge.

He said: "We have liaised with Moray Council, Grampian Police and Network Rail and are working closely with the contractor to ensure that the works are carried out safely and efficiently.

"Disruption is inevitable; however, we would ask motorists to drive carefully on the diversion routes, particularly through the various communities.

"We would ask that road users plan their journeys carefully in advance using www.trafficscotland.org in order to minimise any disruption."

Traffic lights will be controlled manually to minimise queues on the A96 during peak flows. Overnight closures will run from 11pm on Saturdays to 10am on Sunday, with diversions in place.

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