Stirling's Kerse Road bridge is set to reopen on Friday ahead of schedule and on budget.

The road bridge, which is normally used by 22,000 vehicles a day, has been shut for six months to allow Network Rail to carry out the electrification of the city's railway.

Initial estimates from Network Rail suggested the bridge would have to close for a full year, however Stirling Council successfully negotiated that timeframe down to six months in a bid to minimise disruption.

The £8m project was due to be complete by October 23, with the early finish a welcome boost for businesses, residents and commuters.

Environment and Housing committee convenor, councillor Jim Thomson, said: "It is absolutely tremendous news that Kerse Road is to reopen to traffic - not just on time - but ahead of schedule.

"It's great that from this weekend, Stirling is fully open for business as traders, residents and visitors gear up for the Christmas rush.

"We knew the closure would cause disruption, no matter the timescale, but this was a necessary evil we planned for.

"The bridge was crumbling and needed replaced and the electrification of the track will mean quicker journey times in and out of Stirling for rail passengers, making the city more accessible."

The road will open to all two-way traffic without restrictions from October 19, however the bridge will be closed for two successive weekends in January to allow utility works to be carried out.

The temporary pedestrian footbridge will remain in place until the New Year.