§ Mr. David MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about the safety of the M8 Kingston bridge in Glasgow; what recent studies have been carried out; what is the estimated cost of repairs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonStrathclyde regional council has responsibility for the Kingston bridge as local roads authority. The council has kept the Scottish Office informed over the last few years of the emerging problems of the bridge. The council has undertaken investigations into all aspects of the bridge and the approach roads. To date some £8.6 million has been spent on repairs, investigations and monitoring. The estimated cost of repairs to the bridge is £11.3 million with a further estimate of £25.7 million for repairs to the north and south approach roads.