From left to right: Paul Allen, senior project manager at Esh Construction; Michael Sherrard, construction manager at Esh Construction; Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates; Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council; Ganesh Gunasekaran, bridge design engineer at Mason Clark Associates; Jason Randle, head of place and highways infrastructure at Hull City Council.

Drypool Bridge: Council to start fixing key city bridge

Hull City Council has confirmed that repair and strengthening works on Drypool Bridge will begin this month (July), with Esh Construction and Mason Clark Associates leading the project. 

Following the receipt of a Marine Management Organisation (MMO) licence last week, the contractors will begin setting up the site compound on the former Rank Hovis site from Monday 7 July, in preparation for the major repair works on the bridge. 

Initial construction activity will concentrate on the south side of the bridge, involving the removal of footpath railings, surfacing, and partial carriageway and kerb sections. 

To enable these works, and to manage traffic flow and minimise disruption, a contraflow system will be introduced from Monday 14 July, allowing two-way traffic to continue during the first phase of works. 

The footpath linking St Peter Street and Clarence Street will also be closed to pedestrians and cyclists. 

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, said: “Fixing Hull’s roads and infrastructure is a top priority for the council. That’s why we have a real plan to invest in the city’s bridges.  

“Drypool Bridge has served Hull for generations, and this repair programme is vital to making sure it remains a safe, reliable route for residents. 

“The start of the repair work is a huge step forward. Esh Construction and Mason Clark Associates will deliver the project to the highest standards. 

“We’ve worked closely with our contractors to plan carefully. Together we’ll do our best to keep traffic flowing and minimise disruption. 

“We appreciate everyone’s continued patience and cooperation while these vital repairs are carried out.”  

Steven Garrigan, divisional director at Esh Construction, said: “A significant amount of work has gone on behind the scenes during the early contractor involvement (ECI) phase therefore we are pleased to reach this latest milestone. We look forward to repairing and preserving this important structure for future generations.” 

Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates said: “After over a year of design, and having completed extensive investigations and consultations to gain all the necessary permits to undertake the works, it is great that work will be starting on strengthening this structure.   

“Mason Clark Associates are looking forward to working closely with Hull City Council and Esh Construction to deliver this scheme.” 

The second phase of works will involve repair and strengthening works, which will require a full closure of the bridge. Details of this, including the full programme and anticipated bridge closure timelines, will be announced in the coming weeks.  

For the latest traffic updates follow @Hullccnews on X (formally Twitter) or Facebook. Alternatively, visit Causeway one.network. 

For weekly traffic and travel updates, visit Hull weekly roadworks update – Hull CC News

People and cyclists crossing the road to Ennerdale Leisure Centre