This week saw the first ‘normal’ meeting of the new Edinburgh City Council. Kevin’s very first question was to the new Transport Convener on when the Burnshot Bridge will reopen.
The new Convener (Lesley Macinnes) confirmed the centre section of the bridge needs to be removed and that this work will be undertaken in the autumn. She said planning was underway for this to happen probably over a weekend as it will obviously require the A90 to be closed.
She also said the removal of the centre section would allow a fuller investigation into the refurbishment and replacement options. A recommended option will be then presented to Transport and Environment Committee prior to the programme of work commencing.
She confirmed the bridge is unlikely to re-open before the Summer of 2018.
Kevin was allowed a follow up question so emphasised the disruption this was all causing. He said how concerned he was that the bridge could be closed for a full two years before being reopened. He asked her to make this a priority and return with a more definitive timetable so folk can feel progress is being made.
Both of us will continue to pass on any information we get.