Drypool Bridge to reopen after two-month closure for vital repairs

Hull City Council has confirmed that Drypool Bridge will reopen to all vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists on Friday 24 July. 

The closure is expected to be lifted at approximately 3.30pm, with some traffic management to remain in place. 

The current full closure of the bridge allowed the progression of vital works, such as concrete repairs and the repainting of key structural elements, that could not be safely undertaken while the bridge remained operational. 

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, said: “I am pleased that this latest phase of work has come to an end on time. We would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and understanding during this full closure period. 

“We recognise the disruption that closing such a key route has caused, but these repairs are essential to safeguard the long-term future of the bridge. 

“The reopening of Drypool Bridge marks a significant milestone in this project and allows people to once again use this vital crossing while further works continue under traffic management.” 

The council, in partnership with local contractors Esh Construction and designers Mason Clark Associates, have been working to fix the bridge since routine inspections in 2024 revealed the need for essential repairs.    

Paul Allen, Senior Project Manager at Esh Construction, said: “The full bridge closure has provided a vital window for our team to complete a significant package of repairs safely and efficiently, reducing the need for a longer period of disruption.  

“Reopening the bridge under traffic management allows us to take advantage of the favourable weather conditions and bring forward the next phase of repairs, while restoring this important route for the travelling public.” 

Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates, said: “Drypool Bridge is a vital part of Hull’s transport network and an important piece of the city’s heritage, with the repairs completed during the closure having addressed key structural issues that will help extend the service life of the bridge and improve its long-term resilience. 

“The successful reopening of the bridge is the result of close collaboration between Hull City Council, Mason Clark Associates and Esh Construction. While further works will continue under traffic management, road users can be reassured that these essential improvements are helping to secure the future of this important crossing for many years to come.” 

Works will continue on the bridge until winter 2026 under traffic management, with the bridge open to two-way traffic. No further long-term closures of the bridge are expected as part of this programme of works. 

Alfred Gelder Street 

The council has also confirmed that essential highway improvement works on Alfred Gelder Street, carried out by C R Reynolds have been completed. 

Having carried out the work at the same time, this road will also reopen at the same time as Drypool Bridge on Friday 24 July.  

Mitigation measures  

The temporary Bus Gate, which was introduced on Queen’s Dock Avenue to support bus services during this period of disruption, has been suspended, with the associated signage and road markings removed.  

The AI traffic signals, introduced to alleviate congestion, will also be returned to their original configuration.  

Stay up to date  

For more information about the programme and the mitigation measures in place, visit Drypool Bridge | Programmes – Bridges | Hull   

For the latest traffic updates, follow Travel Hull on X or Facebook. Alternatively, visit Live Traffic and Travel – Travel Hull.  For weekly traffic and travel updates, visit Hull weekly roadworks update – Hull CC News