A BUSY section of the M8 motorway is to be reduced to a single lane in each direction for “essential” roadworks in North Lanarkshire for three weeks.

Roadworks have been announced for Longacre Bridge which carries the motorway over Craigens Road between junctions five and six.

Traffic will be managed under a contraflow system between the two junctions from 8:30pm each Friday to 6am each Monday for three weeks.

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BEAR Scotland who are carrying out the work said a section of the M8 is to be reduced to a single lane in each direction while essential waterproofing and refurbishment work is carried out.

The eastbound on-slip at junction six Newhouse will be closed during the three weeks, with traffic diversions to the A73 southbound, the B7066 eastbound and the B7057 northbound, to join the M8 at junction five, Shotts Interchange.

Commuters have been asked to allow extra travel time for their journeys during the periods when the lanes are reduced.

David Bishop, BEAR Scotland’s South East Unit Bridges Manager, has urged motorists to be patient while the work is carried out.

He said: “The project to refurbish and re-waterproof this bridge deck is essential to ensuring that this motorway structure continues to provide a safe and reliable service for years to come.

“We thank motorists in advance for their patience and understanding and would recommend that they check the latest travel updates, plan ahead and allow extra travel time for their journeys during these periods.”

All work is weather dependent and is subject to cancellation in the event of adverse conditions.