Queensferry Crossing Taking Shape As Work Hits A Peak
The number of workers employed in the construction of the new bridge over the Firth of Forth has peaked at more than 1,200.
Infrastructure Secretary Keith Brown said 75% of those working at the site of the Queensferry Crossing have a home address in Scotland.
He viewed progress on the project and saw the bridge's three towers, which are all now more than 160 metres high - at least 10 metres above the height of the Forth Road Bridge.
They are expected to reach their final height of more than 200 metres later this year.
Mr Brown said construction work has kept up pace despite poor weather throughout the year, with recent milestones including the launch of the south approach viaduct into its final position and the installation of the first cables on the north tower.
He said: "It's great credit to the hard work and dedication of the men and women working on the Queensferry Crossing to see the progress they have made since my last visit.
"This is despite the challenging conditions they often face, particularly in the middle of the Forth estuary, even during the summer.
"Work is under way on every front across this vast project and workforce numbers are at a peak.''
He said "significant opportunities'' continue to be created for businesses, with Scottish firms awarded subcontracts and supply orders totalling £246 million out of a total figure of £549 million.
"The project team have done a great job in mitigating the effects of the recent poor weather and it is pleasing to report that the project remains on schedule to be complete by the end of 2016,'' he said.
Transport Scotland said the crossing is being delivered under budget, at around £1.35bn to £1.4bn.