Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Liz Smith, has today pressed the First Minister for additional measures to prevent HGV drivers from crossing the Forth Road Bridge in windy conditions.
Lengthy delays for commuters and travellers were felt on Tuesday following the overturning of a high sided goods vehicle. This was the second such incident in recent weeks, following the bridge’s closure for almost 24 hours after a HGV overturned in January.
The new Queensferry crossing, which has special wind shear protection, was meant to open last December before being delayed. In her response to Liz, Nicola Sturgeon, said that Transport Scotland will shortly hold a conference aimed at reducing incidents like this in the future.
Commenting Liz Smith MSP said:
“Travellers have faced huge tailbacks, diversions and commuting misery following the two recent closures of the Forth Road Bridge as a result of overturned HGVs.
“If the SNP had kept their promise the Queensferry Crossing would already be open and travellers would not have faced these issues. Nonetheless, as it stands it would appear that far too many HGV drivers ignore traffic warnings and gamble on crossing in windy conditions.
“Today, the First Minister failed to take her share of the blame for travel chaos, but I was pleased to hear her acknowledge the seriousness of this issue and I look forward to what additional measures will be taken following the Transport Scotland conference.”