The Kincardine Bridge will be closed this weekend, as works commence to connect the temporary bridge running alongside it.

The bridge will be closed from 8pm on Friday, October 27, to 6am on Monday, October 30, to allow for the connection of the temporary bridge.

This temporary bridge will carry traffic during the demolition and reconstruction of the bridge’s substandard southern piled viaduct.

The temporary bridge will run alongside the existing structure, connected to the A985 trunk road north and south of the works area.

This will allow road traffic, cyclists and pedestrians to continue using the bridge in both directions during the construction works over the next 18 months.

Chris Tracey, unit bridges manager for BEAR Scotland, said: “The replacement of the southern piled viaduct will help to ensure the Kincardine Bridge’s long-term availability for service as a key trunk route.

“Balfour Beatty are now ready to connect the temporary bridge that will allow traffic to continue using the A985 over the Kincardine Bridge during the replacement works.

“This is an important milestone that will allow work to proceed on demolishing and reconstructing the substandard southern piled viaduct.

“Traffic modelling suggests that by maintaining two-way traffic during construction, no significant delays will occur, although some lane closures and limited full closures will be required.

“We’ll continue to keep the public informed as this major project progresses.”

A diversion route will be established between the Higgins Neuk Roundabout and the A985 east of Kincardine, via the Clackmannanshire Bridge and the A977.

Should the works be disrupted due to adverse weather or any other reason, the closure will instead take place during the weekend of November 3-6.