Full Closure of the Forth Road Bridge
The Forth Road Bridge is closed in both directions with motorists being asked to use an alternative route for their journey.
A spokesman for Transport Scotland said the bridge was likely to remain closed for at least 24 hours. The southbound carriageway has been closed and a contraflow has been in place since defects were discovered in steelworks on Tuesday. Since then inspections have identified eight other parts of the bridge where similar problems could be encountered. The closure decision was taken late on Thursday after the latest reports indicated the faults were more serious than had earlier been thought. No timescale has been given for when the crossing will reopen but an update will be given on Friday.
Scotland's Transport Minister Derek Mackay said: "In light of the latest information and expert advice we've been recommended to close the Forth Road Bridge. "The reason for that is that further traffic could cause further damage, having identified a fault. Therefore the bridge has to be closed. "I know that causes significant disruption and I thank travellers and drivers for their patience but we have to close the bridge for reasons of safety, to undertake investigation and repairs. "Therefore I would advise the travelling public to avoid travelling if they were going to use the Forth Road Bridge tomorrow."