THE new section of the M8 is to open to traffic almost a week ahead of schedule.
The so-called missing link of Scotland’s busiest motorway between Newhouse and Ballieston will open westbound on April 23 and eastbound a week later.
It is the latest stage in the £500 million M8 M73 and M74 Motorway Improvements Project.
Diversions on the M8/A8 started in February while the finishing touches were put to the new carriageway.
Transport Scotland said the work will improve journey times at peak times by around 20 minutes.
The Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work Keith Brown said: “The new M8 will be a major milestone in what is a massive transport infrastructure project and I’m pleased to say the phased opening will start five days ahead of schedule.
“We are now close to seeing the culmination of three years of construction works and half a billion pounds worth of investment to improve this vital link between Scotland’s biggest cities.
“This investment will make a tangible difference to our economy, improving business links and connectivity, as well as reducing journey times for road users who rely on this route for part of their daily commutes”
Further information on the opening of the new M8 and new diversions on the A8 and local junctions can be found at http://www.transport.gov.scot/m8opening
Enjoy the convenience of having The Sunday Post delivered as a digital ePaper straight to your smartphone, tablet or computer.
Subscribe for only £5.49 a month and enjoy all the benefits of the printed paper as a digital replica.
Subscribe