Review of Strong Winds Strategy

Forth Estuary Transport Authority News Release 16 April 2008

The operators of the Forth Road Bridge have set up a multi-agency working group to look at ways of reducing the disruption to bridge traffic caused by strong winds.

The move follows an unusually windy winter, which has seen two lorries blown over on the bridge and the crossing closed to high-sided vehicles for a total of 184 hours.

A report to the Forth Estuary Transport Authority reveals that the working group has a remit to review current procedures for dealing with wind susceptible vehicles on the bridge, as well as the provision of signs on the approaches. The impact of strong winds on the surrounding road network is being examined, and the group is looking at ways of improving communications between agencies and with the public. Prevention and enforcement strategies will be considered, in liaison with the procurator fiscal and in consultation with the road haulage industry. FETA is also working with the Met Office to find ways of improving the accuracy of forecasts.

FETA Convener Tony Martin said: “There’s no easy solution to the problem of managing traffic during high winds, but we’re determined to do what we can.

“In recent months there has been a large increase in the number of vehicles having to be turned away by police during high winds. This causes severe delays for bridge traffic and gridlock in South Queensferry.

“However, these restrictions are absolutely necessary for safety and to minimise bridge closures caused by vehicles overturning. Relaxing these restrictions would only lead to more closures, so better prevention and enforcement must be the key.

“That’s why this working group is considering a broad range of measures, including improving the provision of signs in the surrounding network and bringing charges against those who ignore safety restrictions.”

Working together on the group are the Forth Estuary Transport Authority, Transport Scotland, Fife Constabulary, Lothian & Borders Police, Central Scotland Police, Fife Council and City of Edinburgh Council.

Several meetings have already taken place, and the group will report back with recommendations in June this year.

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