***CORRECTION*** Temporary Closure of North Road, Bellshill

Motorists and residents of Bellshill are being advised that the temporary ‘T’ junction providing access to North Road in Bellshill (B7070) from the A725, will close Monday, 19th September 2016, for approximately six weeks.

Scottish Roads Partnership (SRP), the contractor responsible for delivering the M8 M73 M74 Motorway Improvements Project on behalf of Transport Scotland, requires the six week closure to remove the temporary ‘T’ junction and connect the existing North Road with the realigned A725.

The temporary ‘T’ junction, which has been in operation for the last eight months, allowed North Road to remain open during construction of the new North Road Bridge and approach roads to the upgraded Shawhead Junction.

Now entering the final phase of construction, the new North Road Bridge is scheduled to open at the end of October, connecting the communities of Bellshill and Coatbridge to the A725 and A8, via Shawhead Junction.

During the final phase of these works, road users are being advised to follow a signed diversion via A725, Bellziehill roundabout, Gartcosh Walk (A721) and return to North Road. The diversion will operate in both directions.

SRP will continue to provide a free shuttle bus for the convenience of residents living within the vicinity of North Road, Bellshill, providing transportation from the bus stops on North Road previously serviced by First Glasgow’s 201, and linking with the 201’s amended route on Gartcosh Walk (A721).

The shuttle bus service will run in a continuous loop between North Road and a the bus stop on Whifflet Street, north of Shawhead Junction. The bus runs from 7am to 7pm, seven days a week.

Signed diversions will be in place on all approaches to provide road users with alternative routes throughout the works, however, delays are anticipated and motorists are being advised to plan their journey in advance. Signs advising of the change to the bus service will also be deployed.

Graeme Reid, Transport Scotland’s project sponsor for the M8 M73 M74 Motorway Improvements Project, said:

“By the end of October, road users will benefit from the improved connections to the A8 and A725 as the new North Road Bridge opens, providing a direct link to the upgraded Shawhead Junction.

“We appreciate the patience of the local community and road users alike as these complex works near completion, and we will continue to work closely with SRP and North Lanarkshire Council to minimise disruption.”