M8 Woodside Viaducts: 'Repair, replace or remove' options detailed by Transport Scotland amid significant challenges

The viaducts, which were originally completed in 1971, have had ongoing works since March 2021 as their condition deteriorated. Transport Scotland says that further permanent works will need to be undertaken to ensure their future viability.

Three approaches have been detailed by Transport Scotland. Approach one would see the viaducts repaired over an estimated time period of 1-3 years at a cost of between £125m. Approach two would see the viaducts replaced to modern design standards over the course of 3-4 years, but costs are expected to be high. The proposals estimate a cost of £200m-£500m.

The final approach could be a complete removal and rerouting of traffic onto the M74 and the city’s local road network. It is estimated that this would take around 1-2 years and cost less than £125m.

Hok-Weng Chau, M8 Woodside Project Manager, Transport Scotland said: “The public engagement events next week are an opportunity for road users and the community to view and comment on the early emerging options. I would encourage anyone with an interest in the project to come along to one of the events or view the material online and share their feedback to help shape the future plan for this part of the M8 motorway.”

In 2023, Transport Scotland stated that the temporary propping work would cost £81.6 million and be completed by late 2024. Preparatory repair work had cost £29.6 million.

In August it was announced that repairs to the viaducts would be complete in the second half of 2027, when the westbound carriageway was complete. The cost range for the ongoing project is thought to be between £126 and £152 million.

At the time of the announcement, Transport Scotland’s Director of Major Projects, Lawrence Shackman said that contractors Amey were facing “significant challenges”. Most significantly, an existing sewer, adjacent to the SPT tunnel at the western end of the viaducts, was found to be in a different location than expected.

The proposals are currently at the second of eight stages, with Transport Scotland saying that “this is a priority project that affects the movement of people and goods in this area, as well as local communities.”

It is estimated that more than 150,000 vehicles use the M8 daily.

A series of public engagement events are set to take place, with the next on Wednesday, 4 March. A virtual exhibition room is also available.