Stirling Council invested £1.2 million to repair and strengthen the 18th century Category B Listed bridge, which carries the B8034 over the River Forth between Arnprior and Port of Menteith.
The work necessitated a full road closure of the B8034 in September 2024, which was extended from six to 10 months due to additional ecological protections and further essential repairs being identified during works.
Regular updates have been provided to community councils and local businesses throughout the project, including in-person and online meetings.
Listed Building Consent was required for the work, which included the removal and rebuilding of the bridge walls, a full repointing of the stone using traditional materials, repair of cracks, the installation of a new bridge deck and measures to protect the bridge from river erosion.
The bridge fully reopened to traffic on Friday 20 June. Additional finishing work to the carriageway will take place at later date over several nights, with the timing of this to be determined following feedback from the local community to minimise any further inconvenience.
Complex project
Convener of Stirling Council’s Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee, Cllr Jen Preston said: “These essential works will safeguard the future of this important and historical river crossing for many years which is why it was prioritised for this major investment.
“Repairing and strengthening a bridge that dates back to 1774 was already a complex project but further challenges were uncovered during the works which meant the structure had to stay closed for longer.
“There has been a long period of disruption for the community during the works and I would like to thank all local residents and businesses for their patience and understanding.”
Stirling Council’s road network is its largest and most visible community asset, stretching more than 1,000 kilometres across a huge area.
Commitment to maintain and upgrade our vast road network
Cllr Preston added: “Completing significant projects such as Cardross Bridge underlines our commitment to maintain and upgrade our vast network of roads and footways – this keeps our communities moving, supports economic growth and delivers wider benefits for the people of Stirling.”