Forth Road Bridge closed until new year due to structural faults

Faults have been discovered in the bridge's steel work

The Forth Road Bridge is one of the worlds most significant suspension bridges (Phil Wilkinson - Pool /Getty Images)

The Forth Road Bridge will remain shut until the new year after faults were discovered in its steel work, Scotland's Transport Minister Derek Mackay has said.

The Scottish Government decided to close the bridge after inspections carried out by specialist engineers. Independent experts also advised the bridge remained closed following an assessment of the fault.

Work is already under way to repair the crossing and it is expected to be reopened to traffic in January.

The problem was first identified during a routine inspection on Tuesday and a complete closure of the bridge came into force at midnight, with major tailbacks experienced on diversion routes at rush hour.

Mr MacKay said the decision was "not taken lightly", and steps are being taken to lessen the impact of the closure.

Engineers said a 20mm crack in a truss under the southbound carriageway close to the bridge's north tower could not have been predicted and happened quickly.

Continuing to allow traffic to use the bridge would "increase the risk of causing extensive secondary damage to the structure".

Additional rail, ferry and park-and-ride facilities are to be put in place and emergency service vehicles will still be able to use the bridge when responding to calls.

Mr Mackay said: "Every effort is being made to open the bridge as quickly as possible but safety is the main priority, however these works are weather dependent given the height and location of the bridge.

"We are aware of the potential economic impact, for strategic traffic in the east of Scotland and on people living in local communities.

"This is an unprecedented challenge in the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. On balance following advice from engineers and independent experts, the full closure is essential for the safety of the travelling public and to prevent further damage to the structure of the bridge.

Chartered engineer Mark Arndt, from Amey, said: "This is a complex engineering challenge. The component failure is in a difficult-to-access location and our response is also highly dependent on weather conditions.

"We continue to work around the clock on inspections, assessments and calculations along with the development of designs to effect the necessary repairs, while at the same time mobilising all the resources required to reopen the bridge as soon as is possible."

Additional reporting by Press Association