Drivers to face four weeks of overnight closures on M80 in Stirling as major roadworks to start

Drivers are set to face four weeks of overnight closures on the M80 in Stirling as major roadworks are scheduled to commence. The closure will affect the Junction 9 northbound slip road on the M80, as engineers aim to repair a section of the road due to fears of subsidence. The slip road was closed for safety reasons earlier this year, with a temporary link road put in place since August.

The repair work will involve excavating a 1000m2 area of the slip road to a depth of 1.5 metres. The road will then be reconstructed with layers of stone, geotextiles for reinforcement, a new sub-base, and road surface. To ensure the safety of road users and workers, the temporary link road will be closed from 8pm to 6am on Monday to Friday nights for four weeks starting from November 18. During the closures, traffic will be diverted northwards to Junction 10 before returning southbound to exit via the M80 Junction 9 southbound off-slip, adding approximately 10 miles and 11 minutes to affected journeys.

Extensive site investigations were conducted to determine the cause and extent of the subsidence, including boreholes drilled by the Coal Authority and BEAR Scotland. The investigations did not uncover evidence of mine shafts or historical mine workings. BEAR Scotland’s South East Network Manager, Tommy Deans, expressed gratitude to road users for their patience and understanding during the investigative and design process. Deans stated that the repair design is fit for purpose and expected to be completed before Christmas.

In conclusion, the upcoming roadworks on the M80 in Stirling will result in overnight closures for four weeks, impacting the Junction 9 northbound slip road. The repair works aim to address issues of subsidence and ensure the safety and reliability of the road for all users. Drivers are advised to plan alternate routes and allow for extra travel time during the closure period. Staying informed about roadworks and following diversion signs will help minimise disruptions and ensure a smoother driving experience.

Insights:
Road maintenance and repair works are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of our road networks. The planned closures on the M80 demonstrate proactive efforts to address infrastructure issues promptly, thereby enhancing the overall driving experience for motorists. It is essential for drivers to stay updated on roadworks schedules and plan their journeys accordingly to mitigate any inconvenience caused by such works. Remembering to adhere to traffic management measures during construction periods can contribute to smoother traffic flow and improved safety on the roads.