PLANS to replace a bridge into Weston-super-Mare built during the Second World War have moved a step closer.
Contractor Octavius has been appointed to carry out work on the Winterstoke Road Bridge by North Somerset Council.
The council said the bridge provides an “important route” into the town but, due its age and condition, has a 7.5T weight limit and is expected to permanently close in the next five to 10 years.
Now, working in partnership with Octavius and the Ministry of Defence, North Somerset Council has developed plans for a replacement bridge which would remove the weight limit and maintain access for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists for decades to come.
Funding has come from the Ministry of Defence and construction is expected to start next year.
Cllr Mike Bell, leader of the council and executive member for major projects, said: “Many people rely on Winterstoke Road to get to their homes, schools and jobs and so we are committed to replacing this historic bridge, building greater capacity and resilience into our transport network.
“The new bridge will allow more journeys, realising the benefit of regional growth by removing weight limits to help businesses, while ensuring local communities remain connected however they choose to travel.
“As ever, sustainability and our future environment remain cornerstones of our scheme and I am pleased to say that the replacement bridge will include a new cycle lane and wider pavements so that residents and visitors can get around more easily.
“We look forward to working with Octavius and the Ministry of Defence in making the scheme a reality and will work closely with residents over the coming months as we complete detailed design and prepare for construction next year.”
Chris Hudson, Octavius delivery director for highways, added: “This is an interesting project as we will be replacing a bridge that was originally built by the Ministry of Defence in 1943.
“The route over the bridge provides access to industrial and residential areas to and from the Weston-super-Mare town centre and the design development phase has already begun.
“The replacement will be meticulously planned, and we will adopt methodologies that ensure we minimise disruption to businesses and the local community.
“We currently expect activities will commence at the site from early 2025, with the new bridge due to be completed in spring 2027.”
This is good news and it is well over due ,but how will it work out for people to get to and from places, ie town and the est like the Bournville and Oldmixon, will there be some sort of division?
Will there be access to walk over the bridge whilst work is commencing?
I walk to work everyday via this bridge.
I would need to know if we can still use it otherwise I will have to get the bus to work whilst the work is being done
2 years of a nightmare because North Somerset council can’t organise anything properly. Proven facts
2 Years!, is it one man doing a bit here and there in between his proper job?
2 years, what a joke. Weston is already a nightmare to navigate. A better construction plan needs to be thought out, imagine closing a section of the motorway for 2 years whilst they replace a bridge. One man and his dog must be carrying out the job.