Strategy

Following extensive studies and in light of the more positive prognosis for the Forth Road Bridge, Transport Scotland has developed a managed crossing strategy for the Forth Replacement Crossing which takes into account the existing bridge.

The more positive prognosis for the Forth Road Bridge allows it to become a dedicated public transport corridor carrying public transport, pedestrians and cyclists.  In the future it could be adapted to carry a Light Rapid Transit (LRT) system, such as a tram.

A refined, sleeker replacement bridge is proposed to complement the existing bridges and setting.  This bridge will carry cars and, importantly, heavy goods vehicles. 

The strategy for the connecting road network combines the use of state-of-the-art traffic management technology, with significant junction improvements and new high-quality dual carriageways.

The revisions and refinements mean that the project is now estimated to cost between £1.7 and £2.3 billion – a saving of around £1.7 billion on the original estimate of £3.2 to £4.2 billion.  

The strategy provides all the benefits required - more reliable journeys, improved connections to the trunk road network, a dedicated public transport corridor and future opportunity for LRT - for significantly less cost and less environmental impact.

The project remains on schedule to start construction in 2011 and open in 2016.