Motorists travelling across the Cromarty Bridge on the A9 are being advised to allow extra time for their journeys as essential inspections begin on Thursday 29 October.

BEAR Scotland, working on behalf of Transport Scotland, will carry out a series of inspections on the bridge, with temporary traffic lights operating at scheduled times until Thursday 5 November.

The work will examine the bridge’s cathodic protection system, which helps protect its structure against corrosion, alongside a principal inspection carried out every six years.

Both inspections form part of the ongoing maintenance programme intended to keep the busy Highland crossing safe and in good condition.

The first period of traffic management will take place on Thursday 29 October between 7pm and 10pm.

Temporary traffic lights will then return from Monday 2 November until Thursday 5 November, operating daily between 9.30am and 3pm.

Drivers may experience delays during these periods, particularly when traffic is being directed across the bridge in alternating directions.

Specialist engineers will use an underbridge inspection unit to access areas beneath the structure that cannot be examined from the road surface.

The inspections will help identify any maintenance requirements and inform decisions about future repairs.

BEAR Scotland says it has consulted relevant stakeholders in advance to make them aware of the arrangements and help minimise disruption.

Richard Cook, BEAR Scotland’s North West Bridges Manager, said:

“These inspections are part of our routine work to review the condition of the bridge and will inform our programme of future repair works.

“As part of the inspection, specialist engineers will access the underside of the bridge using an underbridge inspection unit.

“We thank road users in advance for their patience and understanding while our teams carry out these essential inspections.”

The Cromarty Bridge is an important part of the A9, providing a vital connection between communities north and south of the Cromarty Firth.

Thousands of motorists rely on the crossing for commuting, business journeys and access to essential services, making careful management of roadworks particularly important.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and check the latest road conditions before travelling.

Live traffic information and updates are available through Traffic Scotland at www.traffic.gov.scot and on X through @trafficscotland.

The scheduled inspection programme is expected to conclude on Thursday 5 November.