Scotland roadworks: Major bridge works on M8 to pause over Christmas and New Year
The final phase of works on the bridge will commence on January 19.
Major bridge works on the M8 will will pause over Christmas and New Year but return in late January for two more months, a road maintenance firm have confirmed.
The BEAR Scotland project to refurbish the bridge carrying the B792 local road over the M8 motorway between Bathgate and Blackburn has been ongoing since May this year.
The current phase of works, that are between Junctions 3A and 4, will end on December 19, when the contraflow and 40mph speed limit will be removed.
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Traffic management will then be reinstalled on the nights of January 17 and 18, 2026, when the M8 will be fully closed in both directions between Junctions 3A and 4 from 8.30pm until 6am each night.
A diversion route will be signposted in both directions via the A779, A7066, and the A801, adding an estimated 1.1 miles and 5 minutes to affected journeys.
The final phase of works on the bridge will commence on January 19 with a contraflow and 40mph speed restriction in place between Junctions 3A and 4 for approximately two months.
It has been confirmed two lanes will remain open in each direction.
Motorists using the M8 are advised to plan ahead and expect delays.
Traffic using the B792 local road between Bathgate and Blackburn will not be affected.
BEAR Scotland ‘pleased’ motorists will get break over festive period
BEAR Scotland’s South East Unit Bridges manager David Bishop said: “This bridge over the M8 is undergoing refurbishment to ensure it can continue to provide safe and reliable service for decades to come.
“Ongoing works include concrete repairs, installation of cathodic protection to increase the longevity of concrete elements, and repainting of all existing steelwork.
“We’re grateful to road users for their patience and understanding during the project, and are pleased that they will get a break from restrictions over the festive period.”
Live traffic information is available from the Traffic Scotland website www.traffic.gov.scot and on X at @trafficscotland.
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