Bailey Bridge Closure Update - dates and mitigation measures
We now have the official notice from Suffolk County Council on the dates for closure of the Bailey Bridge for repairs; the bridge is expected to be closed from 2 July until the end of September 2021.
Following an independent inspection of the bridge at the end of April 2021 it was confirmed that repairs and refurbishment works were necessary. This is needed without delay to address significant defects and replace key structural members. Repair works and refurbishment need to be undertaken at the earliest opportunity to ensure the safety of the public.
Since Suffolk County Council and its local members committed funds to undertake this major refurbishment, concerted efforts have been made to identify ways of mitigating the impact this closure will have locally; it has been fully recognised that the closure of this bridge at a time where lockdown is easing will present a significant challenge to local residents, businesses and visitors to the area.
A number of mitigation measures have been explored to take place during the closure. These include:
- £20,000 support pot that'll be administered by the local councils
- Longer working hours and a longer working week so the work can be completed as quickly as possible – shortening the programme of work from 16 weeks to 12 weeks
- More frequent and extra ferry services
- Temporary traffic measures in Walberswick for the duration of the work to better support those travelling into the area.
More details on all the above are expected in the coming days and weeks
Mobilisation works are set to begin to ready the site from Monday 28 June 2021, ahead of the closure of the bridge on Friday 2 July 2021.
The full Press Release from Suffolk County Council can be seen here: https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/public-rights-of-way-in-suffolk/southwold-walberswick-bailey-bridge-refurbishment/