Crash bridge set to reopen in four weeks
SPECIALIST REPAIR WORK IS NOW BEING CARRIED OUT
A TIMESCALE has been given for the full reopening of Lady Bay Bridge, which was closed after a lorry crashed off it in July.
The bridge was initially closed in both directions for a week after the crash on Monday, July 4. Nottinghamshire County Council then reopened part of the bridge in one direction on Monday, July 11.
Motorists leaving Nottingham have been able to use the bridge thanks to the installation of temporary concrete barriers, but a schedule for repair work now means a full opening is being proposed.
The county council said yesterday that work has now started on the repairs, with structural scaffolding now in place.
Work should be completed within four weeks.
Councillor Neil Clarke, cabinet member for transport and environment, said: “The specialist bridge contractor is preparing the brick work this week ready to start the main repair work next week with the aim of completion by the end of August. Given the local heritage of the bridge, materials are being sourced which match the existing style. The parapet will also be rebuilt to replicate the previous design and wherever possible we’re reusing materials.
“This is an important route in and out of the city and following the accident we’re working really hard to get it reopened as soon as possible.
Now we have the specialist staff on site that should be within four weeks.”
Traffic is currently able to use the bridge coming out of the city to
Given the local heritage of the bridge, materials are being sourced which match the existing style Neil Clarke
ensure congestion is minimised.
The council said the southbound direction was chosen for the partial reopening to make sure congestion didn’t build up in the city and affect emergency vehicles. Councillor Clarke added: “We will be keeping motorists and local residents updated as the work progresses and would like to thank everyone for their patience whilst the repair work is carried out.”