Timeline
The crossing is being developed in accordance with the customary planning and design process for major road schemes.
The development of this project has considered a wide range of factors including transport needs, engineering, environmental issues and cost.
Key milestones for the project are:
| Forth Replacement Crossing Study | Aug 2006 - June 2007 |
| Public Exhibitions | August 2007 |
| Scottish Government confirms bridge crossing | Dec 2007 |
| Consultants appointed | Jan 2008 |
| Land searches | Feb 2008 |
| Environmental surveys begin | Feb 2008 |
| Traffic surveys begin | Mar 2008 |
| Ground investigations | Mar - Aug 2008 |
| Topographical surveys | Mar - Aug 2008 |
| Marine investigations | May - Aug 2008 |
| Scottish Government confirms scheme details | Dec 2008 |
| Public Exhibitions | Jan 2009 |
| Environmental Impact Assessment concluded |
Summer 2009 |
|
Parliamentary Bill introduced and Statutory Consultation |
Winter 2009 |
| Construction tender process begins | Winter 2009 |
| Construction tender awarded | early 2011 |
| Construction begins | 2011 |
| Construction ends and bridge opens to traffic | 2016 |
Procurement, financing and legislative options required to take forward the crossing are being developed for consideration and approval by the Scottish Government in 2008.
