Queensferry Crossing expected to stay closed until Wednesday

Transport bosses say the Queensferry Crossing could be closed for more than a day because of fears over falling ice.

Eight vehicles were damaged by blocks falling from the bridge's cables on Monday, with a decision to shut the route taken in the evening.

It has left motorists facing a 34-mile diversion to the Kincardine Bridge in the meantime

Speaking to Tay News on Tuesday morning, Mark Arndt, director of the Forth Bridges for operating company Amey said: "The Queensferry Crossing is likely to remain closed in both directions all of today and into Wednesday based on the prevailing weather forecast conditions that we're expecting to receive.

"We've witnessed multiple snow events, cold temperatures and the like wihtout any impact at all.

"However, what we observed yesterday seems to be a fairly unique set of weather conditions with strong prevailing westerly winds and a temperature and humidity which was sufficient to allow for a wet driving snow formation.

"This resulted in localised areas of wet snow accumulations forming on the cables really quite quickly and then dropping on the carriageway.

"We are monitoring on a constant basis with a view to re-opening as soon as possible."

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: "The Deputy First Minister and Transport Secretary were briefed on the closure of the Queensferry Crossing

"Our immediate priority is the safety of bridge users and we remain focused on that while we assess the situation to enable the bridge to re-open as soon as possible. Any wider investigations can take place once the bridge is re-opened."

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