Edinburgh's North Bridge is to remain partially closed to traffic until Spring 2023 with a six-month delay to the project confirmed. The bridge is currently using a one-way traffic system to allow workers to carry out the refurbishment safely.
The bridge has been closed all northbound traffic since Sunday November 14 last year and it was previously anticipated the closure will last for a period of nine months. But this has been extended due to "unforeseen structural safety concerns" in the central part of the bridge.
The remarkable structure which has linked the old town with the new town for over 120 years has been under refurbishment since 2018. The whole project is expected to finish in 2024.
READ MORE: Fuming Edinburgh man misses out on 'rare' holiday as flight hooked hour before take-off
Edinburgh Live reported in March how repair costs for the bridge had soared to over £60m amid delay fears. The original budget for the work was £22m.
Upon opening up the carriageway, further inspections and investigations revealed the poor condition of the concrete within the central part of the deck otherwise known as the ‘central bay’. This will now require the full replacement of this bay along the entire length of the bridge, not just the 35 percent that was originally thought.
This central bay is not currently subject to motor traffic and is not considered a health and safety issue at present. However, Edinburgh Council have said it is essential that these works continue and are completed as soon as possible.
Speaking to Edinburgh Live Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “This is an extremely complex project to refurbish Edinburgh’s iconic North Bridge and to ensure its longevity as a key link from the north to the south of the city.
"The historic nature of the project, the age of the structure and its heritage value finds the team uncovering previously concealed elements of the bridge which require significant specialist work.
“The one-way system on the bridge means this work can be undertaken safely, both on top of the bridge deck and below the road level.
"Extending the length of time this traffic management is in place will mean the Council can complete this section as quickly and as safely as possible."
Sign up for Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox
He continued: "The city engineers tell me it is necessary that these works continue throughout the festival and well into next year. I have been assured that the Council are putting additional measures in place to ensure pedestrian safety.
“We’re communicating with local residents, businesses and stakeholders, as well as Lothian Buses, to make sure they’re up-to-date with the changes, and there are clearly signed diversions in place.
"I’d like to thank everyone for their patience at this time, and look forward to the completion of the project, which will return this Category A Designated structure to its full glory.
“I’ve asked that Councillors receive more regular updates on progress going forward, along with details of any budget pressures.”
READ NEXT:
- First Edinburgh city centre Travelodge images after 'most radical' transformation
- East Lothian Tex-Mex food truck pop-up opens offering handmade specialities
- Edinburgh city centre could get new basement bowling alley on Rose Street
- Edinburgh's best takeaway crowned as Italian pizza place off Royal Mile
- East Lothian's top ten attractions and days out according to Tripadvisor
