Forth bridge replacement moves a step closer

Proposals to replace Scotland’s landmark Forth Road bridge with a cable-stayed crossing have moved a step closer as consultants start land searches around the potential site.

Engineers, geologists and ecologists from Arup and Jacobs, the two consultants working on the proposal for Transport Scotland, will start work tomorrow (February 13).

Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said: “The surveys and investigations taking place over the coming months will provide Transport Scotland with information about the landscape and ground conditions in the area, and allow them to design the crossing on the most suitable alignment within the identified corridor, minimising impacts on the environment, landowners and local communities.”

Last month, a joint venture between Arup and Jacobs was appointed to work on the project and an environmental survey will start later this month with ground investigation work beginning next month.

Bids are out to specialist contractors for contracts for ground investigation and marine investigation services, and Transport Scotland will name the winners shortly with work on this phase starting this spring.