Third weekend of closures on the Forth Road Bridge is no longer required

The move comes as it emerged demolition work on the old B800 bridge has been completed early.

The road upgrades were a vital part of the Forth Replacement Crossing project. A new bridge for the B800 road between Kirkliston and South Queensferry has been built which meant the old B800 bridge had to be removed.

In order to safely carry out the demolition, a full closure of the A90 was required meaning a significant diversion for road users.

But the Scottish Government confirmed on Wednesday that the work has been successfully completed over the last two weekends.

Steven Brown, roads and infrastructure manager at Transport Scotland, said: “It’s a credit to the team at Forth Crossing Bridge Constructors (FCBC) and their subcontractors Beattie Demolition that they have completed the work on schedule and as planned, so the third reserve weekend is not now required.

“There has been extensive planning put in place for these works.

“All parties are to be congratulated for the open communication and effective co-ordination ensuring a significant number of additional activities could take place over the closed carriageways, over and above the essential demolition works.

“The public are to be thanked for paying attention to travel advice to plan their journey and for staying clear of the area.”

He added: “Traffic around Kirkliston and South Queensferry has been heavier than normal the past two Sundays and we appreciate the patience of local people while this essential work has been carried out.”