Drypool Bridge in Clarence Street, Hull, will remain closed to motorists for two weeks, with potential disruption set to last for several months, Hull City Council confirms.
This announcement comes following a detailed investigation, which was carried out yesterday (Thursday 11 April), uncovered several of the load bearing columns supporting the structure are in a significant state of deterioration.
Over the next fortnight, engineers will undertake further intrinsic investigations, surveys and conduct dredging work to access and inspect the load bearing columns under the water line.
Following completion of this engineering work, a contractor will be appointed to begin the complex and extensive repair work necessary to replace the columns. The work is anticipated to take between seven and 12 months, and a series of full closures should be anticipated within this time frame.
The bridge remains open to pedestrians, cyclists, and river traffic.
Garry Taylor, Assistant Director of Major Projects, Culture and Place, said: “The council carries out structural surveys every six months to make sure our bridges continue to be safe for all road users.
“Since the last inspection, in November, several of the load bearing columns have deteriorated significantly, and extensive repair works are required as a consequence.
“We appreciate the impact this disruption will have and apologise to all those who will be affected. However, the safety of our citizens is always our top priority, and we must ensure the bridge is safe before re-opening to motorists.
“Signed diversion routes will be in place throughout the works and we are modifying our wider traffic control processes in the city and working with our partners to mitigate as much as we can.”
Motorists who typically use Drypool Bridge to travel into the city centre are urged to take notice of the diversion routes and plan their journeys accordingly. This could include allowing extra time to travel, travelling outside of peak hours, cycling or using public transport, to reduce the level of congestion at peak times (particularly in the PM).
Buses will continue to run normally via the diversion routes.
Essential overnight closures (Midnight to 06:00) on North Bridge are due to conclude on Friday 19 April. During these hours it is recommended that motorists use Stoneferry Bridge and Myton bridge only.
To keep up to date with the latest scheduled and emergency works taking place across Hull visit one.network, or the Hull weekly roadworks update section on HullCCNews.
