The 12-month programme, from August 15 until September 2023, will include essential repairs to extend the lifespan of the bridge as part of Network Rail’s commitment to running a safe and reliable railway.

The wrought-iron structure on the City Union Line is more than 150 years old and provides a diversion route for freight traffic and a route for passenger trains to Shields Depot where they are stabled and cleaned.

Residents and businesses in the area have been advised of the work, which will involve noisy ‘rivet-busting’ and ‘grit-blasting’ activities, as well as metalwork repairs and painting.

A community drop-in event is being held on Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 August 2022 at 15 Osborne Street, G1 5QN, from 3.30pm to 7pm, offering an opportunity for people to meet members of the project team and find out more about the work.

Suzanne McKay, scheme project manager at Network Rail, said: “Vital maintenance and renewals work such as the work at Saltmarket bridge helps Network Rail continue to run a safe and reliable railway throughout Glasgow and the surrounding areas.

“This essential work will not only greatly improve the look of the 150-year-old structure but will extend its lifespan for up to two decades.

“We appreciate the impact of our activity will have on those living closest to the bridge and while we will do all we can to minimise this, we are limited in terms of what measures can be put in place to mitigate against some the nosier elements generated by the heavier engineering.

“We are grateful to the community for their patience while we complete this vital improvement work.”

The project is part of a wide-ranging bridge modernisation programme aimed at protecting and improving Scotland’s Railway, with over £4 billion being invested to increase reliability and improve performance.