Kessock Bridge Closure: Person Taken to Hospital Following Police Incident
Police have confirmed that one person was taken to Raigmore Hospital after a police incident on the Kessock Bridge on Friday evening, September 6. The incident sparked a closure of the vital A9 route linking the north with Inverness, causing significant disruption for travelers.
The A9 was closed at around 7.13pm on Friday following a concern for the welfare of a person call. The bridge was initially closed northbound before both lanes were closed at around 8.49pm, bringing traffic to a standstill. It was finally reopened just before 11pm, after nearly four hours of closure.
Police Respond to Incident on Kessock Bridge
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 6.10pm on Friday, September 6, police attended a concern for person call on the Kessock Bridge. The man was taken to Raigmore Hospital." However, further details about the incident remain undisclosed. The police statement does not shed light on the nature of the incident, the circumstances leading to the man being taken to the hospital, or the reasons for the extended closure of the bridge.
RNLI Involvement
Kessock RNLI lifeboat was also tasked by HM Coastguard to launch at around 6.28pm on Friday, further indicating the potential seriousness of the incident. However, the RNLI's role in the incident and the reason for their involvement remain unclear. A spokesman for the RNLI said: “We thank the public for their support and remind everyone if they see anyone in danger near water to please call the coastguard on 999.”
Bridge Closed Again on Sunday
Adding to the disruption, the bridge was again closed for a period on Sunday at around 8.36pm, before being reopened an hour later. This incident, described as a police incident by Traffic Scotland, further highlights the ongoing concern for safety and security on the Kessock Bridge.
The extended closures of the Kessock Bridge have raised questions about public safety and the nature of the incidents that have led to these closures. As the full details of the incidents remain undisclosed, the public will continue to seek answers about the events that transpired on Friday and Sunday evenings. The police are expected to provide further information about the incidents in due course, shedding light on the circumstances and ensuring public understanding.
Bridge to the Future: Addressing Safety Concerns
While the Kessock Bridge is a vital transport link for the region, recent events have highlighted the importance of addressing safety concerns and ensuring the well-being of all road users. Effective communication between police and the public is vital to manage traffic disruptions and minimize the impact on commuters and travelers. The incidents have also underscored the need for a proactive approach to security and safety measures on the bridge to prevent future disruptions and ensure the safety of the public.