The temporary road closure will affect people travelling from Bellshill. An interchange at Shawhead will be upgraded as part of the road improvement initiative in question. Business card printing in Coatbridge could be used if local enterprise receives a boost when the route is finally open.
A spokesperson for Transport Scotland has told the Motherwell Times:
“Our contractor is working closely with the local authority to develop a solution which will ensure that traffic restrictions will be kept to a minimum. The diversion duration has yet to be confirmed.”
Some motorists will not be able to use North Road for a while, and will be obliged to take a detour. This will involve going along the Gartcosh Walk, passing the Bellziehill roundabout and taking the A725 bypass.
Local councillor Harry Curran has said that in the short-term, motorists may experience significant inconvenience. In addition, he has admitted that drivers in the vicinity already have issues with roadworks, specifically mentioning the activity being undertaken in the area of an interchange at Raith.
The councillor has shown empathy with commuters to Coatbridge, but has stated that he is confident that the work will lead to positive outcomes when it is all completed.