(1)Ministers, when carrying out the Forth Crossing works, may interfere with a right of navigation in the Firth of Forth (within the Act limits) but only—
(a)to the extent as may be required to carry out or maintain the Forth Crossing works, or
(b)where the Forth Crossing works may endanger navigation.
(2)The interference with navigation may consist of such steps as Ministers consider necessary, including—
(a)controlling navigation,
(b)temporary closure of the Firth of Forth, or a part of it, to navigation,
(c)carrying out scour protection works,
(d)construction of temporary structures,
(e)construction of facilities for temporary mooring or anchoring of barges and other vessels,
(f)placing, removing or maintaining buoys, beacons or other navigational warning apparatus.
(3)Ministers must—
(a)consult the relevant navigation authority before interfering with a right of navigation, and
(b)take reasonable steps to secure that the minimum obstruction, delay or interference is caused to vessels using or intending to use the Firth of Forth.
(4)Ministers are not liable for any loss arising (including any costs or expenses sustained) as a direct or indirect result of exercising their powers under this section.