RESTORATION work on Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge is set to finish almost five years later than originally planned.
The 19th-century bridge, which links the capital’s old and new towns, has been subject to partial closures since 2018 as plans to repair and replace the concrete central deck got under way.
The plan was for the bridge to fully re-open in November 2020 but an official document now states that the overall completion date will be June 18 2025.
The City of Edinburgh Council committed more funding to the project earlier this year, which takes the overall cost to more than £62 million.
Transport and environment convener, councillor Scott Arthur said the “complexity” of the project meant further investigations uncovered “previously concealed” issues.
He added: “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 elements of the bridge which require significant specialist work.
“We’re communicating with local residents, businesses and stakeholders, as well as Lothian Buses.”
Since November 2021, the bridge has been reduced to a single southbound lane whilst footpaths are not accessible.
Public transport has also been redirected elsewhere in the city centre.
In March, a council committee warned the project risked “continued timeline slippage” if further funding was not provided.
An additional £25.7m was added to the budget for the full refurbishment after it was discovered that parts of the bridge had not been inspected since its construction 120 years ago.
The local authority also said the Covid-19 pandemic had caused some delays.
Arthur added: “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 updated on progress going forward, along with details of any budget pressures.”
