As repair work continues at Cleveland Bridge in Bath, B&NES Council has announced that emergency vehicles will be prevented from using it in coming weeks.
Underneath Cleveland Bridge | Photo © B&NES Council
Works to repair the structure are continuing with the removal of damaged concrete trusses supporting the deck and a temporary footway being laid on the west side.
On the opposite side of the bridge, the heritage kerbs and drainage have been removed.
Following a detailed inspection by engineers which has shown worse than previously identified damage, every repair has been assessed to decide how the works will be carried out.
A series of repairs have now been scheduled to take place from 9th August to 23rd August and from 13th September to 16th September which means the bridge will need to be closed to emergency vehicles.
Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to use the bridge, but cyclists will need to dismount.
Since the bridge first closed to vehicles and at all other times apart from between these dates, access will remain for emergency service vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.
Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport, said: “We cannot stress enough that repairing and protecting this Grade II* listed structure is an enormous task requiring the greatest care and careful planning.
“We have identified two periods in August and September when we have no choice but to close the bridge to emergency vehicles so that we can safely complete certain repairs, however pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to walk across.
“We are in contact with the emergency services who have assessed the alternative route and option of stationing vehicles elsewhere if required.
“Our project team and contractor are working hard and are reviewing options to maintain our original three-month closure programme and, as always, we are grateful for people’s patience with the disruption caused.”
