Bridge is finally reopened
DRYPOOL BRIDGE DEEMED SAFE FOR TRAFFIC UNTIL MAJOR WORKS CAN BE COMPLETED
DRYPOOL Bridge reopened yesterday following detailed investigations and surveys - which have deemed that the bridge is safe to use whilst major repair works are being drawn up.
Drypool Bridge was closed on April 10 “until further notice” amid safety concerns. It was announced that the bridge would be closed to traffic for two weeks whilst further inspections took place.
During these investigations carried out by Mason Clark Associates on behalf of Hull City Council, detailed assessments were made regarding the upper load-bearing columns. The assessment concluded that the bridge retains sufficient loading capacity to operate safely, reopening to the public.
In due course, a contractor will be appointed by the Council to begin this major work - with the priority being strengthening and remedial works to the columns. The work is anticipated to take between three and six months - it was initially estimated that work could take up to 12 months and cost £7m.
A series of partial and full closures of the bridge will be required to complete the works when they commence.
Garry Taylor, Assistant Director of Major Projects, Culture, and Place said: “We appreciate the impact this closure has had, and we apologise to all those who have been affected. However, the safety of our citizens is always our top priority, and we had to make sure that the bridge was safe before reopening to all traffic. Our early intervention and further investigation work has ensured this is the case.
“We will now take the appropriate action and repair the deteriorated elements as soon as we have a contractor in place. This will help mitigate additional deterioration to the condition of the columns and reduce the likelihood of unexpected, last-minute closures.
“We thank residents for their patience and understanding.”