Queensferry Crossing

Queensferry Crossing

This blog has covered a variety of infrastructure projects around the world. Now, let’s focus on Scotland.  The Queensferry Crossing is a new 2.7 kilometer un-tolled cable-stayed bridge, located alongside the Forth railway bridge. With a supporting infrastructure of another 4 kilometers of roads, this project has potential to completely revamp Scotland’s road infrastructure.

This project was finally finished in August 2017 (the original deadline was December 2016). “The crossing replaces an aging road bridge and is‑seen as vital to the country’s economic wellbeing, improving the reliability of journey times for all modes of transport….Scotland’s government has chosen to fully fund the project with public money” (KPMG).

The project has already started showing its benefits. Data has shown a slight reduction in travel times both northbound and southbound. With the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) features added (with emphasis on increased safety), there have been fewer accidents. Independent watch dogs have revealed that the project has delivered value for money and was well managed. This project also has great aesthetic value so it can bring in tourists, social change and confidence to the country’s economy. At the end, this would be a game-changer for Scotland.

A picture of the Queensferry Crossing (Image Credits: Arup)