ROADWORKS on bridges over the A1 in East Lothian get under way tomorrow (Wednesday).

BEAR Scotland has been working in the Scottish Borders to carry out "pier protection upgrades" on a variety of bridges over the busy route.

The work has been extended by a day meaning work in East Lothian will start tomorrow.

The first phase in the county takes place on the bridges over Johnnie Cope’s Road and at the Dolphingstone Junction, near Tranent.

Work takes place from 8.30pm to 6am each night until March 3 and the A1 will be restricted to a single lane in both directions between the Dolphingstone Junction and the Bankton Junction.

This stretch of the A1 will then be fully closed in both directions from 8.30pm until 6am each night from February 7 to 9 and also February 12 to 14.

A signed diversion route will be in place through Tranent via Church Street and the A199 Edinburgh Road, adding an estimated 2.4 miles and five minutes to affected journeys.

A similar scheme at Salters Road and Carberry Bridges is due to run from March 5 to 31.

Chris Tracey, BEAR Scotland’s south east unit bridges manager, said: “These pier protection upgrades are required to safeguard road users and maintain the integrity of the overbridges on this stretch of the A1.

“The works will bring the barriers up to modern standards and increase road safety.

“Lane and road closures are essential for the safety of road users and our operatives, however we’ve arranged for the works to take place overnight to minimise the impact."

For more information, go to www.traffic.gov.scot