Why we're repairing Redcliffe Bridge, why work stopped, and how long the repairs will take.
We restarted work to refurbish Redcliffe Bascule Bridge in June 2022.
image It crosses the harbour from Redcliffe Way to Welsh Back (4.32 MB) . It's expected to be completed early in 2023.
Why work stopped
Repairs were started in January 2021, but the contractor went into administration and ceased to trade.
We're working with a new contractor to carry out the remaining works.
The bridge is open
Redcliffe Bridge is open to pedestrians, cyclists and general traffic.
One footway is available for pedestrians and one lane for general traffic, including cyclists.
There are temporary traffic signals in place. Some delays are likely.
The bridge can only be partially reopened as we waterproof and resurface the deck in stages.
The Bristol Bridge diversion is no longer is place and general traffic should use Redcliffe Bridge instead.
Bristol Bridge reverted back to a bus gate from midday on 21 November 2022.
What the repairs will involve
The work will involve important structural, mechanical and electrical repairs to allow the bridge to open properly and let larger boats through.
It will also protect the structural integrity of the bridge, reducing the need for future repairs.
How much the repairs will cost
The refurbishment is expected to cost around £2.85 million.
This will be covered by money already set aside from Bristol's capital funding programme.
About Redcliffe Bridge
Redcliffe Bascule Bridge was built in 1942 to link Queen's Square to the city centre.
It's made up of two fixed spans and a lifting ‘bascule' span which allows larger boats to enter Welsh Back, a wharf alongside the floating harbour.
The bridge underwent a major refurbishment in 1996. This included replacing the original timber deck with a new steel deck and replacing the electrical control system.
Those repairs are more than 25 years old and need to be upgraded to modern standards.