AN ICONIC bridge in Stirling will be closed this Sunday to allow the installation of temporary barriers as a safety measure.

The Stevenson Bridge, which carries the A9 Causewayhead Road over the River Forth and is a key transport route, will be closed on Sunday, July 19.

The bridge parapets require to be fully replaced to maintain structural integrity – this is being planned as part of a major refurbishment project.

The temporary vehicle safety barriers are to be put in place on the bridge due to the current condition of the parapets and these will remain in place until the refurbishment works are complete.

Barriers will run along the full roadside stretch of the bridge without restricting lane width or vehicle movement.

A full road closure will be in place on Sunday to allow the installation of the barriers.

The closure will affect the road from Customs Roundabout to the traffic lights at the junction with Cornton Road, between 8am and 5pm o the day.

A diversion will be in place via Cornton Road, Alloa Road and the A91.

The timing and phasing of the major refurbishment is still to be agreed and full consultation with communities and businesses will be undertaken in advance.

Councillor Jim Thomson, convener of the Environment and Housing Committee at Stirling Council, said: “The Stevenson Bridge is a critical crossing of the River Forth for the city of Stirling and its communities.

“These temporary safety measures are essential to protect the bridge.

“We are committed to conserving the rich history and heritage of Stirling, as illustrated by the planned refurbishment work that will be carried out on this landmark structure."

The bridge was designed by famous Scottish civil engineer Robert Stevenson, who is also well-known for his lighthouses.