News / Gaol Ferry Bridge
Gaol Ferry Bridge officially closes for at least six months
Metal fencing has been erected by Gaol Ferry Bridge, marking its official closure for at least six months.
The crossing between Coronation Road and Cumberland Road, which is a key route for many pedestrians and cyclists, is due to be out of action for to repair its structural steelwork, rotten timbers, steel lattice work and stonework.
The bridge’ closure comes in the wake of months of uncertainty and delays.
is needed now More than ever
Originally, it was set to close for 12 weeks and repairs began in December 2021 whilst the bridge remained open.
The council said Gaol Ferry Bridge would then completely shut off to pedestrians and cyclists from June, a date which was delayed due to unforeseen “complexities” in the project.
The crossing between connecting north and south of the New Cut will now be closed until January at the earliest, and cyclists and pedestrians must take detours across Bedminster Bridge or Vauxhall bridge to cross the river.
Gaol Ferry Bridge is closed from today for at least six months. Here is the official diversion over Bedminster Bridge: pic.twitter.com/39ib1IDAcq
— Martin Booth (@beardedjourno) August 22, 2022
Bristol24/7 have reported that traders are increasingly concerned that the bridge’s closure would negatively impact business – going as far to say it “threatens their very existence”.
In Wapping Wharf, shopkeepers predict that businesses may not survive due to the predicted dramatic loss in footfall between Southville and the harbour.
A spokesperson for the council has said they understand how challenging the closure will be for many of the businesses in the area and that work is ongoing to support those affected and to encourage people to visit them.
They said: “We are working to highlight that Wapping Wharf will remain open and accessible throughout these essential works to repair Gaol Ferry bridge, and are progressing with plans to promote the businesses through our ‘Where’s It To?’ and ‘Shop Local Bristol’ campaigns.
At the time of announcing the closure plans, Don Alexander, cabinet member for transport, said: “We need to carry out these essential works to ensure it remains safe to use now and for many years to come.”
“This work is one part of a wider investment in the harbourside estate aimed at protecting the infrastructure and environment already in place and making the most of the area as a whole.”
Gaol Ferry Bridge is one of at least six bridges that are undergoing repairs as the council embarks on its £15m ‘bridge improvement programme’.
Other structures under this are the Bath Bridge, Bedminster Bridges, Langton Street Footbridge (the banana bridge) and Vauxhall Footbridge.
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
Read more: The gaol ferry bridge that was here before gaol ferry bridge
Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
