An investment of £1.2 million has been made by Stirling Council to repair and strengthen the Category B Listed bridge, which carries the B8034 over the River Forth between Arnprior and Port of Menteith.

The work will necessitate a full road closure of the B8034 for six months from Monday 9 September, with a diversion route in place via Thornhill.

A written update on site progress will be issued to affected community councils on a regular basis, with a series of business and community engagement events also scheduled in advance of the work and as it progresses.

The project, which required Listed Building Consent, is part of Stirling Council’s £6.6m investment in its road network this year.

It is one of 72 projects taking place across the Stirling area as part of the council’s commitment to maintain and upgrade its vast road and footway network that stretches more than 1,000 km. And it comes on the back of the council completing works to Blane Water Bridge on the B834 ahead of schedule.

Contractors will remove and rebuild the bridge walls and undertake a full repointing of the stone using traditional materials. Cracks will also be repaired, with works to protect the bridge from river erosion, as well as the installation of a new bridge deck. The bridge will have a 10-ton weight limit when completed.

Cllr Jen Preston, convener of the Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee, said: “The condition of the structure of Cardross Bridge has deteriorated in recent years and subsequent investigations and surveys have clarified the necessity for these works.

“The bridge dates back to 1774 and it will be repaired and strengthened sympathetic to its age and location, with engagement from stakeholders such as Historic Environment Scotland, SEPA, Nature Scot and Forth Fisheries Trust.

“We would like to thank all local residents and businesses for their patience and understanding during these essential works and we will communicate with them throughout the process. All efforts will be made to re-open the road in a safe manner and at the earliest opportunity.”
Community