§ Mr. Charles KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the length of the delays which have occurred in respect of the completion of the caissons for the Skye bridge; if he will explain the reasons for the delays and the degree of slippage in the original timetable as a result, with specific reference to weather and geological considerations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 12 May 1993]: There has been a delay of approximately five months in placing both caissons on to the seabed from the original programme. This very difficult operation involves marine works in deep water and is highly dependent on the occurrence of suitable weather and tidal conditions. Delays due to inappropriate weather and tidal condition have also been exacerbated by the longer time being taken to prepare the seabed excavations in very hard rock. Both the design and geotechnical teams involved are ensuring that all due appropriate care is taken in this important phase of the work. By reacting appropriately to these difficult circumstances the contractor is confident that the completion date of mid-1995 will be unaffected.
39W