Drypool Bridge will reopen to two-way traffic and pedestrians from 8pm on Thursday 27 November, following the successful completion of the first phase of essential repair works.
The council, in partnership with local contractors Esh Construction and designers Mason Clark Associates, is working to fix the bridge following inspections last year, which highlighted the need for major repairs to be undertaken.
The reopening of the bridge represents an important milestone for the scheme, which has seen the bridge closed for repairs since September 2025.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, said: “Thanks to the excellent collaboration between the council and its contractors, we have been able to complete this first phase of works and re-open the bridge on time – providing a timely boost for the local economy as we head into the busy Christmas and New Year period.”
To maintain safety while work continues on-site, traffic management will be in place, with lanes narrowed.
An additional full closure will be necessary in 2026 in order to complete the repair work. Further information on specific dates will be communicated in due course.
This essential work forms part of a wider investment in Hull’s transport infrastructure, aimed at futureproofing key routes and preserving the city’s heritage.
Councillor Ieronimo added: “Drypool Bridge provides a vital crossing between east and west Hull, and I’m really pleased that we can reopen it for a period of time while these essential repairs continue.
“Reopening the bridge, even under traffic management, will help keep Hull moving and make journeys easier for residents, businesses and visitors.
“Thank you for your ongoing patience as we work to fix and futureproof this important piece of Hull’s road infrastructure and heritage.”
Michael Sherrard, Construction Manager at Esh Construction, said: “We have carefully planned the programme of works to minimise disruption wherever possible, ensuring the bridge is closed only when necessary to complete repairs safely and efficiently.
“Reopening Drypool Bridge under traffic management is a significant milestone that will help keep Hull moving while we continue to tackle the complexities of this important project.”
Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates, said: “Drypool Bridge presents a unique set of engineering challenges, with much of the work taking place in confined spaces beneath the deck and around key structural elements.
“Our team continues to work meticulously with Esh to deliver high-quality repairs that will restore the bridge’s integrity and extend its service life for many years to come.”
A road closure on Alfred Gelder Street, between Lowgate and Clarence Street, was also in place whilst Drypool Bridge was closed, to facilitate major District Heating network installation.
These works have been completed, and the road will reopen in coordination with Drypool Bridge.
Mitigation measures
The temporary Bus Gate, which was introduced on Queen’s Dock Avenue to support bus services during the recent bridge closure, will be suspended (from 8pm on 27 November 2025), with the associated signage removed. The road markings will remain, with suspension signage put in place.
The AI traffic signals, introduced to alleviate congestion, will be returned to their original configuration on Friday (28 November) morning, and the temporary park and ride on Holderness Road will be closed to the public.
Stay up to date
For more information about the programme and the mitigation measures in place, visit Drypool Bridge | Programmes – Bridges | Hull
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For weekly traffic and travel updates, visit Hull weekly roadworks update – Hull CC News
