Queensferry Crossing closed for over 14 hours due to ‘risk of falling ice’

The Queensferry Crossing was closed in both directions for more than 14 hours due to a “risk of falling ice”.

Traffic was diverted across the Forth Road Bridge.

The crossing was closed as Storm Bert brought heavy snow and rain to Tayside, Fife and Stirling on Saturday.

Transport Scotland said ice was observed falling from the bridge’s stay cables above the carriageway.

The route reopened at around 2am on Sunday.

Queensferry Crossing closed due to ‘risk of falling ice’ during Storm Bert

Dave Bishop, BEAR Scotland’s South East Unit Bridges Manager, said: “The safety of bridge users comes first, and we therefore made the decision to temporarily close the Queensferry Crossing when we identified ice falling from the cable stays and towers of the Queensferry Crossing. One vehicle was damaged.

“The diversion over the Forth Road Bridge using the recently installed, fully automated barriers went well.

“We constantly monitor conditions in real time using a bespoke system of weather sensors on the bridge towers and deck.

“At 10:20 this morning the system reported conditions conducive for ice formation which was verified by patrols on the bridge.

“We had already mobilised additional ice patrols, traffic management teams and barrier operators and the Queensferry Crossing was closed at 10:20 and the Forth Road Bridge was opened at 10:50.

“The risk has now passed, and it is safe to reopen the bridge.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this closure.”

The Met Office issued several weather warnings across parts of Angus, Perth, Fife, and Stirling during Storm Bert.

The Courier rounded up all the disruption caused across the region.