Queensferry Crossing Maintenance Access Walkway

Project Details

The Queensferry Crossing is one of Scotland's most recognisable engineering landmarks, spanning the Firth of Forth between Edinburgh and Fife. The 1.7 miles (2.7km) structure is the longest 3-tower, cable-stayed bridge in the world. It is also by far the largest to feature cables which cross mid-span. Owned by Transport Scotland, the crossing represents a £1.35 billion investment in Scotland's transport infrastructure and forms a vital link within the country's road network. Regular inspections and planned maintenance are essential to ensuring its long-term safety, reliability and performance.

To support these ongoing maintenance activities, dedicated bridge maintenance access walkways were installed beneath the bridge, providing engineers and authorised personnel with safe, reliable access to key structural areas. The project required durable access systems capable of performing in an exposed marine environment while supporting the long-term maintenance of this nationally significant structure.

Did You Know?

Maintenance access walkways are an essential part of modern bridge infrastructure, allowing engineers to safely inspect structural components without disrupting traffic. Designed for demanding environments, these systems provide secure access while reducing maintenance risks and improving long-term asset management.

Galvanised ball standard handrails, open mesh flooring panels and GRP handrail systems are widely specified for bridge maintenance walkways due to their strength, corrosion resistance and long service life. Open mesh flooring provides excellent drainage and slip resistance, while GRP handrails are lightweight, corrosion-resistant and non-conductive, making them particularly suitable for areas close to electrical panels, control equipment and other electrical infrastructure.

Kite Group Contribution

Kite Group became involved during the planning stage, working closely with BEAR Scotland, the organisation responsible for maintaining Scotland’s trunk roads and bridges on behalf of Transport Scotland, to understand the maintenance access requirements and recommend the most suitable walkway and handrail solutions.

Kite Group supplied galvanised ball standard handrails, open mesh flooring panels, and GRP tubes and clamps for the bridge maintenance access walkways. The products were delivered in line with the project’s programme, including a major out-of-hours overnight delivery to meet the client’s requirements and ensure installation progressed without delays or additional labour costs.