Redcliffe Bascule Bridge temporary summer closure to continue refurbishment

This stage of the work includes repairing the machinery which opens and closes the bascule bridge. As it will need to remain in the upright, open position while the work is carried out, the whole bridge will close to pedestrians and all traffic. 

Throughout the closure, people will be asked to follow the diversion across Bristol Bridge, which will temporarily allow access to all traffic while the repairs take place. This means road users will not be fined for crossing Bristol Bridge as long as they follow the official diversion. 

Once this stage of the work is complete, the bridge will reopen to all road users. However, it will be followed by further stages of work that will require some lane closures and temporary traffic signals. 

Councillor Don Alexander, Cabinet Member for Transport, 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. 

“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 refurbishment is expected to cost around £2.85 million. This will be covered by money already set aside from Bristol’s capital funding programme. 

To keep up to date with the project, go to www.bristol.gov.uk/redcliffebridge