ESSENTIAL workers commuting from Clackmannanshire could face delays from this week when coming off the A9 toward Doune.

Essential maintenance is planned for the A820 Doune Road, which passes over the A9 at Stockbridge with four-way temporary traffic lights in place for four weeks.

The project, located just under 3km north of Keir Roundabout, started on Monday, February 15, with teams upgrading the current safety barrier system on the overpass.

Works are expected to be complete by Tuesday, March 16.

Trunk road maintenance company BEAR Scotland explained the A820 Doune Road will remain open throughout the project.

However, temporary traffic lights are in place with signals positioned on the A9 slip roads and the overpass for safety.

Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland North East representative, said: "This essential maintenance project on the Doune Road overbridge near Dunblane will help ensure that the structure continues to operate safely for all motorists and functions to the highest standard.

"The planned traffic management is essential to keep everyone safe during this project, however our teams will do all they can to complete the work as quickly and safely as they can to minimise disruption.

"We encourage all road users to plan their journeys in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website before they travel and allowing some extra time to reach their destination."

Single lane closures will be in place on the A9 during off-peak hours at the start and end of the project to allow teams to safely set up.

The A9 will be otherwise unaffected for the duration of the works and access for pedestrians is being maintained.