WORK to demolish and replace the bridge over the railway in Old Kilpatrick will soon begin.

The new bridge, on Dumbarton Road, will strengthen and safeguard the route for the long-term after the deterioration of the current structure left it unsuitable for the weight and volume of traffic which passes over it daily.

Last year, Network Rail invested £1m in building a temporary bailey bridge, which currently sits over the old structure and allows traffic to continue using the route.

Glasgow Times: The temporary roadThe temporary road

But motorists are being advised to plan ahead as the bridge needs to close to all vehicular traffic from August 2 to November 26, to allow work to be completed safely and efficiently.

Vehicles will be diverted via the A82 Great Western Road while the bridge is closed.

Access will remain open to pedestrians until September 24.

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Jeremy Spence, programme manager for the bridge replacement works, said: “Our investment in the temporary bailey bridge allowed the route to remain open to traffic for the last year, however, we now need to replace the existing structure with a permanent bridge that will benefit the community in the long-term.

Glasgow Times: Installation of bailey bridgeInstallation of bailey bridge

“We understand that there will be some disruption in the short-term to road users and nearby communities. And, while the bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic until November, we are pleased that we’ll be able to keep it open to pedestrians for the vast majority of the works.

“We are very grateful to all road users and the wider community for their patience while we carry out this vital work.”

Network Rail is holding an online drop-in session for members of the public on July 27.

To book a 15-minute slot to speak to members of the project team, visit scotlandsrailway.com/projects/old-kilpatrick/events.