URGENT WORK to replace expansion joints on the Forth Road Bridge is set to be delayed after contractor estimates came in over budget.

Forth Estuary Transport Authority (FETA) yesterday announced they will be reviewing the planned project.

Confirmation the new crossing will be in place by 2016 has also influenced the decision, prompting an investigation into ways to keep the bridge in use while work is carried out.

FETA chief engineer and bridgemaster Barry Colford said, “These joints have reached the end of their service life and do need to be replaced.

“However contractor bids have come in considerably higher than estimated and we now have a firm timetable for construction of the new bridge.

“It may be feasible to design temporary measures that will allow traffic to continue to safely use the current joints until 2016.

“The joints would then be replaced when the new bridge opened, removing the need to spend £6 million on mini-bridges to keep the traffic flowing.”

The mini-bridges are needed to lift traffic up and over the work areas while the joint replacement is carried out, meaning two lanes could remain open in each direction.

Mr Colford said, “In light of these developments, it makes sense to re-examine the project to see if we can delay the work while ensuring the bridge remains safe and open to traffic.

“If this can be achieved we will minimise both the cost to the taxpayer and the disruption caused to traffic.

FETA will now review the possible options with a view to making a decision early in the new year.

Convener Tony Martin said, “One of the main benefits of the new crossing will be to make maintenance of the existing bridge easier, cheaper and less disruptive to traffic.

“Now that we have a firm timetable for construction of the new bridge, we may already be in a position to reap these benefits.”