ROADWORKS to remove a long-standing traffic restriction have begun in North Lanarkshire.

Coltness Bridge near Wishaw, which crosses South Calder Water, has been restricted to single-lane traffic controlled by traffic lights for a number of years.

The work to restore two-way traffic will involve essential repairs to the masonry arch and abutments and the replacement of the steel girder side extensions.

It also includes the installation of steel parapets and carriageway reinstatement.

Work will last around 25 weeks and will mean significant disruption to road users.

Vehicles will be diverted to a temporary, single-lane overbridge controlled by traffic lights, and pedestrians to a purpose-built footway to the side of the bridge.

At times Wishaw Road will be closed to all traffic.

Graham Mackay of North Lanarkshire Council said: "These are essential bridge-strengthening works "We will make every effort to ensure closures are kept to the shortest possible timescale and cause the minimum of disruption."