A major refurbishment project is planned for the bridge carrying the B792 local road over the M8 motorway between Bathgate and Blackburn. Work is scheduled to begin in spring 2025 and is expected to last approximately four months.

The project will involve a range of repairs, including steelwork and concrete repairs, the installation of cathodic protection to extend the lifespan of concrete elements, and repainting of all existing steelwork.

"The bridge over the M8 between Bathgate and Blackburn requires extensive refurbishment works to address defects and to extend its service life so that it continues to provide safe access over the motorway for local communities," said David Bishop, BEAR Scotland's South East Unit Bridges Manager.


The project will require various traffic management measures on both the M8 and the B792, including contraflow, lane closures, speed restrictions, and overnight carriageway closures. Specific details of these restrictions are expected to be released in mid-February following the conclusion of a tender process to appoint a contractor.

"We're currently in the final stages of appointing a contractor and expect to start mobilising for works on site to commence in spring 2025," added Bishop. "We'll publish further information on the traffic restrictions that will be required as soon as details of the programme are confirmed."

Consultation has been carried out with stakeholders, including West Lothian Council and emergency services, to inform them of the planned works.