A series of archaeological digs are to take place prior to work commencing on a new Forth Bridge.

Transport Scotland has revealed it has called in Historic Scotland to identify areas which could be of historic importance on both the north and south sides of the estuary.

A team of historians and archeologists will set about excavating parts of government-owned land at St Margaret's Hope and Echline Fields to ensure any important objects are found and not buried under the foundations of the major new crossing. Negotiations with other private land-owners are also under way.

The work is expected to begin this summer in a bid to avoid any delays to the start of construction. The £2.3 billion project is still to be granted parliamentary approval but work is scheduled to begin next year and end in 2016.

Steven Brown, Transport Scotland's roads team manager, said: "The archaeological work involves scraping away topsoil, trench excavation of the subsoil and then inspecting the area. Further investigations may take place if historical features are identified.

"The areas of archaeological interest are already very well-mapped but we recognise the need to take all practicable measures to ensure items of historical interest are preserved. We will continue to work closely with Historic Scotland to ensure that this happens."