News / Gaol Ferry Bridge
Date finally confirmed for Gaol Ferry Bridge closure
It has finally been confirmed when major repair work on the historic bridge linking Southville and Wapping Wharf is due to begin.
The £1m restoration project that will see Gaol Ferry Bridge closed for between six and nine months has already faced delays, with Bristol City Council blaming “significant challenges” involved with fixing the historic structure.
It has now been announced the key pedestrian and cycle route will close on Monday, August 22.
is needed now More than ever
Traders based in Wapping Wharf have expressed concerns about the impact the prolonged closure will have on their businesses, fearing it could “threaten their very existence” as the footfall they rely on from the bridge will halt.
The council says the bridge, which opened in 1935, is now in “a very poor condition and needs structural repairs”, stating the work will future-proof the structure and avoid escalating costs.
The repairs will address structural issues, including:
- Replacing structural steelwork and rotten timbers
- Repairing the steel lattice work and some stonework
- Repainting the bridge
A statement from Bristol City Council said: “Due to the complexity of the project, we’ve revised our plans for the work and think it could take between six and nine months to carry out the repairs safely.
“We’ll still work to encourage our contractors to reopen the bridge as soon as possible.
“Project timelines can also change depending on external factors, like if we find the bridge is in a worse condition when all the decking is removed.”
Gaol Ferry Bridge will be closed for between six and nine months – photo: Miles Arnold
The council has also dismissed the idea of erecting a temporary bridge, saying the 60-metre span across the river and need for accessible ramps would likely require the closure of both Cumberland Road and Coronation Road to traffic and cost as much as the repairs themselves.
A floating pontoon has been deemed to not be a viable option because of the changing tides of the river within the New Cut.
While repairs are expected to cost in the region of £1m, council bosses warn this could change once all the decking has been removed to expose the full condition of the structure. Costs are being partly covered through highways capital budget and the Department for Transport.
The council says diversion signs will be put in place when the bridge closes on Monday, August 22 – map: Bristol City Council
Local businesses are advised to check if they’re eligible for retail, hospitality and leisure business rates relief or small business rate relief.
Traders can also apply to the Valuation Office Agency to request a temporary reduction in their rateable value for the period that the bridge is closed.
Main photo: Miles Arnold
Read more: Bridge closure ‘threatens businesses very existence’, say traders
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