News / Gaol Ferry Bridge
Gaol Ferry Bridge closure delayed due to ‘significant challenges’
Bristol City Council have pushed back plans for the closure of Gaol Ferry Bridge, a well-used foot and cycle path connecting Coronation Road and Cumberland Road.
The delay has been attributed to unforeseen “complexities” in the project.
The crossing was meant to be completely shut off to pedestrians and cyclists from June – and remain shut for at least six months.
is needed now More than ever
However the council has announced that the planned closure of the bridge will now have to be delayed.
An announcement on the council’s website reads: “Preliminary works to Gaol Ferry Bridge started as planned in June while the bridge was still open so engineers could assess the essential structural repairs needed.”
“This is a complex project which is presenting challenges from the outset. The main contractors, Griffiths, has already discovered the Bridge might not cope under the extra weight of proposed supporting scaffolding.
“This, and other complexities, mean the planned closure of the bridge and the majority of works have had to be deferred over the summer months so a revised plan can be developed.”
The council has been unable to confirm when the bridge will close but has emphasised its commitment to give at least two weeks’ notice, so that residents and local businesses can be updated.
“The new plan must be approved by an independent design specialist to make sure it is safe for the team of workers and their plant and equipment, and for the overall structure of the bridge,” the statement continues.
“Until the plan is approved, we are unable to confirm the date the bridge will close.”
“[We] will do our best to complete the works as quickly as possible.”
Back in May, councillor Don Alexander, cabinet member for transport, said the work will focus on “minimising the impact on people who use the bridge and local businesses”, after local businesses worried about the impact the closure would have on footfall.
Six bridges in Bristol, including Vauxhall Footbridge, Bedminster New Bridge and Langton Street Footbridge (the Banana Bridge), need major restoration work. The improvements include joint repairs, resurfacing and masonry strengthening.
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
Read more: The Gaol Ferry that was here before Gaol Ferry Bridge
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