Warning of closures on busy slip-road of West Lothian M8

A busy slip-road on a stretch of the M8 in West Lothian is set to undergo closures for four nights, affecting traffic flow in the area. The slip road exiting the M8 eastbound at Junction 3, Livingston, will be closed between 8pm and 6am on the nights of November 14, 16, 17, and 18. These closures are part of essential works on the bridge that carries the slip road over the A899 local road.

Additionally, starting from the morning of November 15 until March 2025, a lane closure will be implemented on the M8 Junction 3 eastbound off-slip to facilitate concrete repairs on the abutments of the bridge. Motorists using the eastbound M8 at Junction 3 during the closure nights will be diverted via Junction 3A, Starlaw east roundabout, Carnegie Road, Deans Road, and the A89 to Dechmont Roundabout, adding approximately 4 miles and eight minutes to their journeys.

Dave Bishop, BEAR Scotland Unit Bridges Manager, emphasised the importance of these works for maintaining the structural integrity of the bridge. Despite the inconvenience caused by the closures, the works have been scheduled overnight to minimize disruption to travel. Traffic management on the A899 underneath the bridge will be removed after November 14, following the completion of the works.

Residents and commuters in the area are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and follow the designated diversion routes to avoid delays and congestion. Your safety is our priority, and we appreciate your cooperation and patience during this period of necessary maintenance.

Insights:
Road closures and lane restrictions are common occurrences on busy motorways to facilitate maintenance and repair works. These closures are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of infrastructure, even though they may cause temporary inconvenience to road users. Planning ahead and following diversion routes are crucial for a smooth traffic flow during such works.

Summary:
The closure of the M8 slip road at Junction 3 in West Lothian for four nights and the lane closure on the eastbound off-slip highlights the ongoing maintenance of critical infrastructure. Despite the expected delays, these works are vital for preserving the safety and functionality of the bridge. Residents and commuters are urged to follow diversions and plan their routes accordingly to minimise disruptions during this construction period.