A SIX-WEEK programme of repairs to Sellars Swing Bridge, which carries Sellars Road over the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal, is under way.
Over the years, vehicles have become heavier, which has affected the condition of the bridge, which connects Hardwicke and Quedgeley with Elmore. The Canal & River Trust is making improvements that will strengthen it for future use and also repairing corroded concrete at the end of the bridge.
Damaged road plates causing elevated noise levels when traffic crosses the bridge are being replaced, the balance is being corrected so the bridge does not move when vehicles use it, and new handrails are being installed.
The programme, due to end this weekend, requires the bridge to be closed to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. A signposted diversion route is in place for vehicles, while pedestrians and cyclists can travel a short distance up the canal to Rea Bridge to cross. The navigation will remain open for boats, though boats of a certain height may be asked to wait at times before being able to go through the bridge.
Molly Richards, from the CRT, said: “These repairs will futureproof the bridge for many years to come so it can continue to be used by vehicles and other users crossing the canal into Hardwicke.
“This will cause disruption for drivers, and we apologise for the inconvenience. We will complete the works as quickly as possible and look forward to reopening a stronger, safer and more resilient bridge.”
Updates on the progress of the programme are available at www.tinyurl.com/sellars-bridge
