Christchurch, Motoring & Transport | Posted on February 29th, 2024 | return to news
Maintenance work scheduled for Sopley Bridge
Work to inspect, upgrade and repair Sopley Bridge in Christchurch is set to be carried out by BCP Council next week.
Essential maintenance is due to occur on Sopley Bridge which spans the A338 Spur Road and is located on the Avon Causeway. It is scheduled to take place between Monday 4 and Friday 22 March.
Throughout this period, the bridge will be temporarily closed to all traffic with access directly into properties and businesses maintained. Anyone wishing to cross the A338 will need to follow the temporary diversions in place.
The work, which is being funded by central government, will see new waterproofing membrane installed on the bridge as well as the replacement of defective expansion joints and concrete.
A detailed inspection of its post-tensioned cables to ensure it’s structurally sound will also be carried out.
These important measures will not only enhance its safety and durability of the bridge, but also prevent water damage which would require more frequent repairs and incur further maintenance costs in the future.
During the work, all traffic will be diverted via Ringwood Road, Stoney Lane, Christchurch bypass, Fairmile Road, Hurn Road, Christchurch Road and the Avon Causeway, with signage in place along all the affected areas.
Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy and BCP Council, said: “This essential maintenance work is key to improving the infrastructure of Sopley Bridge for years to come.
“With around 9,000 vehicles using the bridge daily and bad weather taking its toll, it’s vital we regularly assess its safety, functionality and resilience, which benefits all those who use it.
“We understand the frustrations road closures and diversions can cause and ask everyone to bear with us as we seek to complete this work in full and on time. We also advise motorists to leave a bit more time for any planned journeys over the next couple of weeks.
“We are aware this work comes at a time when there are several other large highway improvement projects ongoing, but any disruption in the short term comes with significant benefits in the long run.”
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