A ROAD will close next month to allow a “detailed inspection” of a bridge to be carried out.

The A702 is set to shut on Friday, June 21, between 9pm and 6am.

BEAR Scotland will inspect the bridge carrying the trunk road over the Lyne Water.

A signed diversion route suitable for trunk road traffic will be in place, with northbound motorists directed to leave the A702 at Melbourne Crossroads and follow the A721, A72, A701 and A703, re-joining the A702 at Hillend. 

Southbound traffic will be directed to follow the same route in reverse. This will add around 14 minutes to affected journeys, say officials.

Alternative routes are available in the local vicinity of West Linton, although they are not suitable for all vehicles.

David Bishop, BEAR Scotland unit bridges manager said: “Regular inspection of bridges is key to ensuring that they are well maintained and able to continue carrying traffic for years to come. 

“A detailed inspection of bridges such as these is carried out every six years, requiring close access to all areas of the structure. The space required to accommodate the necessary access equipment on the bridge over the Lyne Water means that the A702 must be closed during the works, however we’ve scheduled them at night to minimise any travel disruption.

“We’re grateful to road users and the local community for their patience and understanding.”