It’s been a while since we last had a round-up of the major news stories affecting the Forth Replacement Crossing’s progress. Below are the major items I’ve come across.
M9 Spur works and average speed cameras on M9 Spur and M90 approach
In addition to the previous post detailing the average speed cameras in Fife along the M90 and feeder roads, there are currently also average speed cameras on the M9 spur and the M9. These are in place during the early phases of construction of the M9 junction 1A upgrade. Just as in Fife, they involve hard shoulder closure and lane restrictions to allow the construction of overhead gantries. This work is being undertaken by Irish firm John Sisk also known as Sisk Roadbridge.
According to a report in Fife Today, 95% of motorists are obeying the M90 average speed of 40mph. I find this fairly surprising travelling that way quite frequently and being overtaken a lot while sitting at 40mph for such a long stretch. Of course I disagree the assertion in the article that this low speed increases the safety for workers, mainly as we’ve not seen any work taking place yet!
Post-construction management of bridges to be privatised
Various reports suggest the completed bridge will be managed by a private company. This follows the wind down of the current operator FETA, whose board was sacked by the SNP Transport minister Keith Brown and will not be bidding for the new contract. A rather curious move, when FETA was widely considered to being doing a good job on the current crossing. Current jobs are promised to be secure to be taken up by the new managing company.
Project information
There is now a dedicated phone number for enqueries relating to the Forth Road Bridge. Thanks to Queensferry Districts Community Council for bringing this to my attention. The number is: 0800 078 6910
There have been a series of meet the contractor events. I was unable to attend, but the slides have been posted here if you are interested.
Contracts and tenders
A number of tenders have been put out for work relating to the new Forth bridge. I don’t keep a close eye on these sites so I’m sure I’m missing quite a few. However below are a selection:
Roadsweeper hire
Security Services
Concrete cutting
Port edgar long sea outfall (sewarage works)
I’ve found a case study posted detailing the work that was undertaken at Port Edgar last year on moving the sewerage pipe. It’s quite an interesting read with a few nice photos.