Sections of the M8 and M9 motorways will be closed overnight later this month as we complete a £4 million project to reinforce the local electricity network.
The reinforcement project, which is nearing completion, saw the installation of a new underground cable – almost 4km long – to replace existing overhead lines that run across the M8 motorway.
With the new cable in place, the overhead lines can now be removed.
To ensure the works can be carried out safely and quickly, the M8 will be closed in both directions between junctions 2 (Claylands Interchange) and 3 (Dechmont Interchange) from 8.30pm on Saturday 21 June until 6am on Sunday 22 June.
Diversions will be in place, with traffic rerouted via the A89.
The M9 eastbound at junction 2 (Philipstoun Interchange) will also be closed to the M8 westbound offslip. Traffic will be diverted via the eastbound M8.
SP Energy Networks’ Project Manager, Barry McDonald, said: “We’re investing in our network to ensure our customers continue to enjoy a reliable and resilient electricity supply as demand increases and people make greener choices about how they travel or heat their homes.
“However, to complete the final stages of this major project, we need to close a section of the M8 temporarily so we can remove the overhead lines that are no longer required. To minimise any disruption, we’re doing this at the weekend and overnight, when there is less traffic on the road.
“We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused and ask drivers to take this into account when planning their journeys.”