The new bridge over the A90 from Edinburgh to the Queensferry Crossing opened at lunchtime today.
After 11 months of construction, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists will find a new reinforced crossing over the dual carriageway.
The previous bridge built in 1964 when the Forth Road Bridge was constructed, was demolished last year after safety concerns. The joints had deteriorated meaning that a new improved concrete replacement had to be built, serving Kirkliston, South Queensferry and Edinburgh.
Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes said: “I’m delighted that the brand new Burnshot Bridge will open to pedestrians, cyclists and motorists this week, and I know the local community will be just as pleased to see this important link restored.
“This has been an extremely complex project and its thanks to the very hard work of the many people involved in its completion that we’ll now be able to walk, wheel, cycle and drive on this key route again.”
Balfour Beatty Contract Director, Keith MacDonald, said: “We are delighted that the complex construction works to rebuild the Burnshot Bridge in Kirkliston have now reached completion, with works procured through the Scape National Civil Engineering and Infrastructure framework.
“It is testament to the team’s safety and expertise that over 48,000 hours have been spent on site without any lost time to injury. Having installed enhanced pedestrian and cycle infrastructure, we are confident that the bridge will improve the journeys for both motorists and active travellers for many years to come.”
Over 200 engineers, designers and other council and contractor staff have been involved in building the new bridge which is 33 metres wide with statue of the art stainless steel reinforcement. This bridge should last for 120 years.
There is a segregated eastbound cycle lane and a shared use path, making the facilities much better for active travel.
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