The new Queensferry Crossing, seen here at an earlier stage of construction, was originally intended to open to traffic in late 2016 but tough weather conditions delayed the opening
If good weather conditions continue then Scotland’s new Queensferry Crossing should open to traffic between July and August of this year. The bridge had originally been intended to be ready by December 2016 but construction work was delayed due to tough weather conditions. However in recent months the weather has been less challenging and has allowed work to continue.
The £1.35 billion project to replace the Forth Road Bridge has been required due to heavy wear and tear the existing structure has suffered from carrying significantly more and heavier traffic than it was designed for. There have also been concerns over corrosion in the main cables of the existing suspension bridge, although further corrosion was halted by the introduction of a novel de-humidification process.
Opening the new Queensferry Crossing will allow the existing Forth Road Bridge to be used as a public transport corridor for buses and taxis. There are also possible plans for the existing bridge to carry trams in the future.
