The Scottish highway M8 from the air: drone footage shows works progress

The Scottish Ministry of Transport has published a video filmed with drones which shows the construction status of the highway M8 M73 M74 project. The aerial images demonstrate the enormous scope of this infrastructure project which, with a total investment of nearly £500 million, should improve the highway network in Central Scotland. Since the works began on the M8, M73 and M74 highways in February 2014, various construction stages have been completed, including the new 2,000 tonne Braehead railway bridge which was moved in July last year, and which carries the line from Rutherglen to Whifflet over the new M8. The Raith junction, one of the busiest junctions in Scotland, is practically completed with a final design. As the video shows, the M8 is entering the final stage of construction. The images also show that, in addition to the new M8, there are new routes for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides of the highway. According to Gabriel Valtueña Ramos, General Manager of the Scottish Road Partnership, “we have filmed this video to give the public a general overview of how the new M8 project is progressing, between Shawhead Junction and Baillieston”. “Now, during this final stage of construction, it is much easier to see how the highway will look when it is complete. As each milestone is reached, users will be able to appreciate the benefits of the project”, added Valtueña. The Minister of Transport, Humza Yousaf, stated: “this drone footage provides the public with a unique perspective of these major construction works that are currently under way to improve the connection between Glasgow and Edinburgh.  The significant progress achieved is clear to see”. The estimated delivery date of the new M8 highway is spring 2017. As of the end of August 2016, the project is 80% complete. It is estimated that this project will reduce the average daily car commute  between Glasgow and Edinburgh by 20 minutes. To see the video published by the BBC, click here.