A major refurbishment of the 190 year old Iron Bridge in Exeter is progressing well and remains on target to be completed this summer.
The essential maintenance work started two months ago to prevent water damage to the Grade II listed structure.
The old top surface has been removed and a concrete slab has been extended across the bridge deck. This is currently being waterproofed to seal the deck before it is resurfaced.
Drainage is being improved, expansion joints are being replaced, and the cast iron on the underside of the bridge is being repaired. Signs and lighting will also be upgraded.
As part of the scheme, a new road layout will be installed to provide better access for all users, with a wider footpath and a dedicated lane for cyclists heading from St Davids – removing the need to give way at the previous narrowing arrangement. This supports the previous changes in the city which made the Iron Bridge one-way to cars.
However, the bridge isn’t being strengthened and a structural assessment has confirmed the bridge is only strong enough to carry vehicles up to three tonnes in weight.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said:
“It’s vital that we protect the Iron Bridge from further water damage which is the main aim of this scheme. We want to ensure the bridge is fit for the 21st century while restoring it to its former glory. The contractors are now installing a new waterproofing layer and drainage is also being replaced to prevent the corrosion issues that have been identified on the bridge.
“Once the scheme is complete, the three tonne weight restriction and 1.8m width restriction will remain in place for the protection of the bridge. It’s very important that when the bridge re-opens that motorists don’t ignore the weight restriction or they risk damaging the structure.”
Councillor Carol Whitton, Councillor for St David’s and Haven Banks, said:
“The Iron Bridge is a highly cherished Exeter landmark and preserving this structure for future generations is really important. Carrying out this work on such a fragile and delicate historical structure is necessarily time consuming and involves considerable inconvenience to Exeter residents who need to navigate their way around the city whilst the works are in progress. This temporary inconvenience is, however, worth it to prevent the further deterioration of the structure and the risk that the bridge might be lost to traffic completely if this work is not carried out now.”
Contractors Bridge Civil Engineering Ltd have come across additional work that needs to be carried out, which couldn’t be seen until work started. This includes repairs to a section of the parapet. However, the scheme remains on schedule.
Although Iron Bridge is currently closed from the junction with Dinham Road to Paul Street, access to the City Gate Hotel and nearby businesses is being maintained throughout.
During the closure traffic is being diverted via South Street, Western Way, Paris Street, New North Road, Hele Road and St David’s Hill.