Queensferry Crossing: Here's why the Forth Road Bridge cannot be opened to motorists today

Many have asked why the Forth Road Bridge cannot be opened to drivers in the event of the Queensferry Crossing being closed

Many have asked why the Forth Road Bridge cannot be opened to drivers in the event of the Queenferry Crossing being closed and today the Transport Secretary gave the answer.

The Queensferry Crossing may remain shut until Wednesday due to severe weather, with eight cars damaged in the "unique conditions".

The bridge is likely to remain closed in to tomorrow

Motorists travelling southbound were advised to divert via the A985 to the Kincardine Bridge and the M9, and the reverse for northbound traffic.

Speaking to Radio Forth News, Transport Secretary, Michael Matheson MSP said: “The reason that the Forth Road Bridge can’t be used at present time is because one of the carriageways is being completely refurbished so its being dug up, the linkspans between the joints have been removed as well so there's gaps.

“The other part of the bridge is used as a public transport corridor for bus and public transport providers, because the Queensferry Crossing has been closed the provision of bus services in the public transport corridor have been increased by some 50 per cent to help to support people in getting into Edinburgh and Fife, therefore if it was open to general car use it would compromise the ability to provide that additional public transport provision that was arranged this morning and will remain in place while the bridge is closed at the present time.

“Because of the work it has undertaken and the public transport provision it has not been possible for it to be opened today.”