When Redcliffe Bascule Bridge will close for 10 weeks

It has been confirmed when another major bridge in the centre will shut for repair works in summer.

Redcliffe Bascule Bridge, which connects Redcliffe to Welsh Back and Queen Square, needs its machinery which opens and closes it fixed.

From August 1, the 80-year-old crossing will be out of bounds to all users while the £2.85m refurbishment is carried out.

People will be diverted to Bristol Bridge, which will temporarily allow all traffic to cross over it.

? Redcliffe Bascule Bridge will close this summer for essential repairs from 1 August for 10 weeks.

While it’s closed, all road users will need to follow the diversion across Bristol Bridge.

Find out more: https://t.co/oWX6ogurQX pic.twitter.com/3LcjhArG7v

— Bristol City Council (@BristolCouncil) July 11, 2022

Don Alexander, cabinet member for transport and Labour councillor for Avonmouth and Lawrence Weston, said: “While it’s good news that the repairs are progressing well, we understand that closing Redcliffe Bridge this summer will cause disruption to residents, commuters and local businesses. We will put a clear diversion in place and will do our best to keep the closure to a minimum.

Repairs began in January 2021 but stalled after the company fixing the structure, Cleveland Bridge, went into administration. The bridge has not fully worked since 2015.

Work is finally due to begin with new contractor, Alun Griffiths, set to carry out repairs to the structural, mechanical and electrical elements to allow the bridge to open properly and let larger boats through. The council says it will also protect the structural integrity of the bridge, reducing the need for future repairs.

As it will need to remain in the upright, open position while the work is carried out, the whole bridge will be closed to pedestrians and all traffic.

Alexander added: “To help reduce the pressure on our road network, we are encouraging motorists to travel to the city centre by bus, foot or bike wherever they can. Not only will this help to keep the roads operating smoothly, it will also help us to deliver clean air and become a carbon neutral and climate resilient city.

“This much needed investment into the refurbishment works will mean larger boats will once again be able to sail through the Welsh Back. It will also protect the structure of the bridge, while helping to reduce noise pollution from traffic.”

The closure of the bridge coincides with another key bridge closure. Gaol Ferry Bridge was due to shut in June for six months of repair work but delays see the footbridge still open.

Bristol City Council has not announced a new start date for the repair work on the bridge connecting Coronation Road and Cumberland Road – but you can handily check its status here.

Main photo: Bristol City Council

Read more: The Goal Ferry that was there before Gaol Ferry Bridge

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