MOTORISTS have been warned to expect long delays as major road works begin on the M8 motorway between Glasgow and Edinburgh this week.
Resurfacing of the road will begin on Monday at Polkemmet, near Whitburn, between Junctions 5 and 4A by Bear Scotland.
There will be a series of overnight carriageway closures, from March 22 to 25, and the M8 eastbound will be restricted to a single lane 24 hours a day.
Meanwhile, from April 4 to 7 traffic between Shotts and Newhouse will be reduced to a single lane in both directions as refurbishment works on a bridge will be carried out.
Tommy Deans, Bear Scotland's South East network manager, urged drivers to expect delays and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
He said: “Everyone who uses the M8 needs to be aware of these three major projects commencing in March and April.
“We usually carry out disruptive works overnight, however the resurfacing project at Polkemmet will be significantly deeper and more comprehensive than normal, therefore we need to close the carriageway for four continuous days.
“Likewise, closures and restrictions will be essential in order to keep drivers and workers safe during major works at Longacre Bridge and the B792 bridge.”
Deans added that while the work will disrupt motorist's journeys, it is necessary to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of the M8’s infrastructure.
