A new bridge at Clackmannanshire in Scotland finally opened for public use last week. 

Designed to reduce the weight of traffic using the Kincardine Bridge, the new crossing is expected to see some 20,000 vehicles each day.

The £120 million structure, which spans the Firth of Forth, was declared open by the first minister of Scotland Alex Salmond.

Mr Salmond said: “Transport is a fundamental part of the Scottish government’s drive to encourage sustainable economic growth.

“This is a world-class infrastructure project which will cut journey times, improve central Scotland connections and provide a unique gateway to Clackmannanshire, Fife and Falkirk.”

Those looking to travel in chauffer driven car hire to the beautiful and picturesque Scottish Highlands will be pleased to know the environmental impacts of the new development were also considered.

Ecological protection measures included in the scheme have created alternative roosting sites for local bird life, for instance.