Kessock Bridge to get £1.5m, 22-week paint job
Bear Scotland says the work is not expected to cause disruption to traffic crossing the bridge.
www.bbc.co.ukHere are the latest updates on the Kessock Bridge based on recent public travel and local reporting.
Core update
- Safety and strengthening works are ongoing on the A9 Kessock Bridge, north of Inverness. A targeted investment (noted as around £2 million) supports structural strengthening of the four bridge towers, wind-speed measurement upgrades, and improved access inside the towers for maintenance teams. Completion was targeted for autumn 2025 in some communications, with ongoing monitoring into 2026 as works continue in phases. This reflects ongoing efforts to ensure long-term structural integrity and safer operations for high-wind events. [general public updates and transport agency briefings from late 2024 to 2025]
Key implications for travel
- Footways and cycleways: The west footway/cycleway has been closed for pedestrians and cyclists with a diversion route in place in some updates, to accommodate safety work on the bridge. Motor vehicle lanes remain open where possible, but traffic management measures (such as contra-flow or reduced speeds) have been used during certain phases of the upgrade. Plan ahead by checking live travel information before journeys. [Traffic Scotland and BEAR Scotland project notices]
- Timeline variations: Some sources indicated completion phases extending into late 2025 or 2026, with ongoing work at multiple locations on the bridge (including painting and protective coatings at the north end and various structural upgrades). Timelines have been adjusted as work progressed, so travelers should expect periodic delays or lane restrictions during peak work periods. [BT/BEAR Scotland project updates and Traffic Scotland notices]
Current status snapshot (highlights)
- Major works are concentrated in the bridge towers and deck treatment areas, with ancillary work like wind measurement upgrades and safety barrier installations continuing as the project progresses. [Bear Scotland project briefs]
- The project has involved significant gatekeeping of pedestrian routes for safety, alongside clear diversion routes to maintain local accessibility and minimize disruption to road users. [Traffic Scotland and BEAR Scotland updates]
What to expect next
- Expect continued phased works around the towers and deck, with periodic lane closures and reduced speed limits as required for safety. Updated travel information is routinely posted by Transport Scotland and BEAR Scotland, including any changes to diversions or closures. [Traffic Scotland; BEAR Scotland notices]
Illustration (example)
- A practical example of the works: upgrading structural steel elements in the towers, installing new wind-measuring equipment, and repainting/conditioning steel surfaces on the north end, all while maintaining traffic flow where possible via contraflow arrangements and diversions. [Project briefings]
Would you like me to pull the most current live travel updates from Traffic Scotland or provide a concise map of current diversions and lane closures for your planned route? I can also summarize the exact timelines from the latest official notices if you want more precise dates.