Bridge to shut for two days for repair work

CLIFTON Suspension Bridge will close to motorists for two days this week.

Closures will be in place between 9:30am and 3:30pm today and tomorrow with diversions put in place.

The works are being carried out because engineers plan to inspect the bridge’s anchorages and carriageway, while workers make repairs to lights on the chains and pot-holes.

A diversion route will be put in place along Bridge Valley Road, Brunel Way and A369 Rownham Hill.

Pedestrians will still be able to use the bridge, with the one way system in place still because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Bridge master Trish Johnson said: “We are taking advantage of the current lower levels of traffic to carry out our annual inspection.

“The inspection of the anchorages cannot safely be carried out with traffic as the access points are in the road. We will also be using the time to inspect the carriageway and carry out repairs to a few potholes and to the lights on the chains.

“During these bridge closures pedestrians will still be able to use the bridge, using the one way circulatory system but cycling will be prohibited.

“Cyclists may dismount and walk across the bridge, but due to the narrow footways, cyclists are requested to avoid using the bridge if possible.

“Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust wishes to apologise for the inconvenience which these closures will cause.

“We hope that by re-opening the road overnight and during the morning and evening busier periods we will minimise the difficulties caused.”