Forth bridges reopen after controlled explosion Published duration 7 October 2015

image copyright Traffic Scotland image caption The road bridge was closed to all traffic shortly before 17:00

The Forth road and rail bridges have reopened after being briefly closed while a controlled explosion was carried out in the area.

The closure happened shortly before 17:00 after demolition materials were found at the site of the new Queensferry Crossing.

The bridges reopened about 20 minutes later.

Traffic Scotland said there was heavy congestion in the area and advised motorists to use alternative routes.

It is believed the materials date from an old construction site and were not part of the demolition works for the new replacement crossing.

The controlled explosion took place on the Fife side of the bridges, which reopened earlier than had been expected.

image copyright Traffic Scotland image caption Approach routes to the Forth Bridge were said to be heavily congested ahead of the closure

image copyright Traffic Scotland

image copyright Traffic Scotland

Traffic was being diverted via the Clackmannanshire and Kincardine bridges.

It was initially announced that the bridges would close at 16:00. This later changed to 18:00 before subsequently being confirmed for about 16:45.

Police said the change in time was due to the weather.

Ch Insp Irene Ralston said: "Exposed wires were discovered today at the Queensferry Crossing, and while this poses no immediate risk to the public, as a precaution we are compelled to close the Forth Road Bridge and the M90.

"We would advise motorists to avoid the area from 16:45 and seek alternative routes. We thank the public for their understanding at this time."

image copyright Getty Images image caption Both the road and rail bridges were closed while the controlled explosion was carried out