Transport Scotland said the installation of temporary propping systems at the M8 Woodside Viaducts has been further delayed after ongoing design and construction works revealed the extent and complexity of the measures required to temporarily prop the viaducts and return the M8 to full capacity.

The temporary propping work is now expected to be fully completed in early 2026. However, the principal contractor Amey is working towards delivering the eastbound carriageway sooner, in Summer 2025.

The cost range for the project is now £126-£152 million.

Transport Scotland said it acknowledges the disruption that is being experienced by the travelling public as a result of the ongoing temporary propping works and appreciates the patience of road users.

Transport Scotland’s director of major projects, Lawrence Shackman, said: “The M8 Woodside Viaducts are a vital element of Scotland’s motorway network, carrying 150,000 vehicles daily.

“Our principal contractor Amey has been delivering this highly complex work on behalf of Transport Scotland while ensuring this busy section of the M8 motorway remains open.

“The ongoing temporary propping works are challenging due to the varying ground conditions and site constraints, including the presence of a plethora of public utilities as well as the Glasgow subway underground tunnels.

“Once the structure is fully propped, lane restrictions on the M8 can be removed.

“The construction programme expects the eastbound viaduct lane restrictions to be removed in summer 2025, followed by the removal of the westbound viaduct lane restrictions in early 2026.”