M8 slip-road at West Lothian to be shut for nine days

The M8 Slip-road in West Lothian is scheduled to close for a period of nine days, starting from 9 pm on Thursday, December 5. This closure is part of an ongoing major project aimed at refurbishing the bridge that carries the motorway slip-road over the A899. The eastbound off-slip at M8 Junction 3 Livingston will be affected by this closure, diverting traffic to alternate routes to ensure smooth flow during this construction period.

Access to the slip-road will be unavailable during the closure, with drivers heading towards Livingston being rerouted to leave the M8 at Junction 3A before the construction area. The diversion route will guide motorists through Carnegie Road, Deans Road, and the A89 eastbound to rejoin the A899 Livingston Road at Dechmont Roundabout. While this detour will likely add less than one mile and typically less than five minutes to journey times, delays are anticipated, especially during peak hours. Fortunately, westbound traffic on the M8 will not be impacted by these works.

Transport Scotland’s operating company, BEAR Scotland, has been conducting substantial maintenance works on this bridge since February 2023. The recent phase of repairs focused on strengthening the central pier, and further work is now required due to identified areas that were not built to the required standards during the bridge’s original construction. David Bishop, BEAR Scotland Unit Bridges Manager, stressed the necessity of closing the bridge to rectify these structural issues and ensure the safety of road users during the strengthening process.

Consultations with relevant stakeholders have been conducted to inform them of the closure plans in advance. Real-time traffic updates can be accessed through Traffic Scotland’s website or via @trafficscotland on Twitter. BEAR Scotland appreciates the cooperation and understanding of motorists, the local community, and businesses during this period of necessary road closure and pledges to minimize the duration of the slip-road shutdown.

In summary, the closure of the M8 slip-road in West Lothian for nine days is part of a crucial refurbishment project to address structural deficiencies in the bridge carrying the motorway slip-road. Although the closure will impact eastbound traffic at M8 Junction 3 Livingston, diverting routes have been established to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of all road users. BEAR Scotland continues its maintenance works to enhance the bridge’s integrity and appreciates the support and patience of the community during this essential phase of construction.