When Yarmouth Bridge was closed last month during its annual service, some faults were identified which will result in the bridge being closed (on and off) to road traffic over two weeks later this month.
We’re informed this afternoon from 9am Saturday 17 April until 5pm Thursday 29 April the bridge will be closed to all shipping.
If you’re a pedestrian crossing the bridge you shouldn’t be affected by the work, but there are certain times when disruption will be caused to road traffic.
Schedule of works
17 and 18 April – temporary traffic lights will be in operation from 9am to 5pm while scaffolding is erected.
19 and 20 April – the bridge will be closed to traffic between 9am and 5pm so that bridge components can be removed and repairs carried out, parking either side of the bridge is prohibited.
21 – 25 April – temporary traffic lights to be used as and when required during 9am and 5pm.
26 and 27 April – the bridge will be closed to traffic between 9am and 5pm so that repaired bridge components can be fitted.
28 and 29 April – temporary traffic lights will be in operation from 9am to 5pm while scaffolding is removed.
Clearly bus routes that use the bridge will also be affected on days when the bridge is closed to traffic, and it’s not clear yet whther Southern Vectis and Wightbus will provide alternative routes. We’ll let you know once we hear.
Peter Hayward, Isle of Wight Council Head of Highways and Transport said: “I am sorry for any inconvenience which will be caused whilst these works are carried out, although I am pleased that we have been able to identify this issue through our routine inspection programme. By scheduling a repair now we will be able to reduce the risk of a breakdown and need for an emergency closure during the holiday season which we know is important to our tourist economy.”
Image: Nate One under CC BY 2.0
