The bridge, at Winterstoke Road, Weston, was demolished over Christmas. Pictures: NSC

Busy road bridge over North Somerset railway lines demolished

Paul JonesJanuary 9, 20260 Comment0

A NORTH Somerset bridge dating back to the Second World War has been demolished.

The crossing, over railway lines at Winterstoke Road, Weston-Super-Mare, had reached the end of its lifespan and is set to be replaced.

Demolition work took place over Christmas and the new year, with the structure removed and the abutments levelled.

The bridge, which carried around 20,000 vehicles a day, closed in November last year ahead of work to replace it.

A temporary footbridge has been installed for pedestrians, while contractor Octavius is now starting piling and foundation works ahead of construction work beginning on the new crossing, set to last for more than 100 years.

Councillor Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said: “I’d like to thank residents for their patience – and their interest – as the historic Winterstoke Road Bridge was removed over the Christmas break.

“Demolition allows us to enter a new phase of work, as we deliver a crucial replacement bridge that’s built to last 120 years.

“In replacing Winterstoke Road Bridge, we’re making a key, long-term investment into local infrastructure – an investment that will maintain and expand current road capacity while also building the resilience and reliability needed to prepare for future growth.

“Because of challenging ground conditions, it’s vital that the replacement bridge is built with deep and strong foundations. These works below ground-level will take place over the next few months.

“Finally, I’d also like to thank the hard work and engineering expertise of our project contractors, Octavius, who have been integral to the smooth and successful removal of the original bridge.”

Chris Hudson, operations director at Octavius Infrastructure, said: “The successful removal of Winterstoke Road Bridge over the Christmas period was the result of detailed planning and close collaboration with North Somerset Council and our supply chain partners.

“Completing this complex demolition safely and ahead of programme within a 52-hour rail possession, while working hard to minimise disruption to local residents, is a significant milestone and allows the project to move fully into the construction phase.”