AN IMPORTANT bridge in Stirling will reopen this week ahead of schedule without restrictions, it has been confirmed.

Network Rail reassured the A906 Kerse Road and bridge, which needed a lift to allow electrification works below, will reopen to traffic this Friday, October 19, a week earlier than anticipated.

The £8million bridge, which has been increased in width, was set to open with lane restrictions limiting access for larger vehicles, but early completion of the reinstatement of utilities mean this will be avoided.

Iain McFarlane, route delivery director for the Stirling-Dunblane-Alloa electrification project at Network Rail, said: “On the back of earlier than anticipated reopening of the bridge, this is further good news for Stirling with traffic over the bridge not being restricted.

“The reconstructed bridge at Kerse Road enables the electrification of the rail lines through Stirling but also delivers a stronger and wider structure which will stand the city in good stead for many years to come.

“We thank everyone for their patience while we carried out this important work.”