Current structure information
Martinhoe bridge was constructed in 1953 and carries Jose’s Lane, C516, over the River Heddon in North Devon between Coombe Martin and Lynton & Lynmouth.
It is a single span post-tensioned composite concrete segmental structure built using the ‘Gifford-Udall’ prestressing method, supported on mass concrete abutments with masonry facing.
Background
Following a routine PTSI (Post Tensioned Special Investigation), safety critical structural issues were identified, necessitating an emergency closure in July 2022. It was re-opened with a temporary road bridge in August 2022, to ensure safety and connectivity in this location, but the temporary structure is not physically or financially resilient as it poses ongoing maintenance and rental costs. A permanent solution will now be constructed to minimise maintenance and to restore a reliable transport link.
What we are doing
Works are scheduled to commence on 12 May 2025 with a projected completion date on end of February 2026, subject to finalising outstanding arrangements. The works will include:
- removal of the temporary road bridge
- demolition of the existing bridge deck
- partial demolition of the existing bridge abutments
- installation of piles
- construction of the abutments
- construction of the bridge deck
- installation of expansion joints
- waterproofing of the bridge deck
- road resurfacing
- parapet containment upgrade
- highway drainage improvements
- signing upgrades
The work is being undertaken by Mac Plant Construction Ltd.
How this will impact the network
A road closure on Martinhoe bridge will be implemented and remain in force between the following dates: 12 May to end of February 2026. The closure will be in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Access to surrounding properties will be maintained and details of the road closure and diversion route can be accessed via one-network. Alternatively, the Temporary Traffic Regulation Order can be downloaded.
It is important to note that the diversion route does not take road users through Broad Oak Hill to Jose’s Lane (and reverse) as this road is unsuitable for HGV traffic. HGV drivers, caravans and other large vehicles must take extra care to account for this road closure when planning their journey.
The bridge closure will impact accessibility to the Heddon Valley National Trust walking trail. Please refer to this National Trust website for any updates regarding this.
Construction work may result in increased noise levels in the area. The contractor will implement control measures to limit noise, although some disruption will be unavoidable. Debris and dust control measures will also be in place to minimise the impact on local residents and businesses.
Proposed structure information
The bridge carries a span between bearings of 13.370m and will consist of 7 pre-cast, pre-stressed concrete TY girders with concrete infill, forming a composite solid slab deck. The abutments will be constructed from reinforced concrete and are supported on vertically bored piles.
Progress update
Latest update – 15 December 2025
Works on the new Martinhoe Bridge continue to progress on site.
During the week commencing 15 December 2025, bridge deck reinforcement fixing was underway, with the deck concrete pour planned for 19 December 2025. All substructure works and the installation of the pre-stressed concrete TY girders on their bearing pads had been completed prior to this stage. Following the deck pour, the edge beams that will support the new masonry parapets will be constructed.
Remaining works
The main outstanding activities are:
- installation of expansion joints
- waterproofing of the bridge deck
- road resurfacing
- parapet containment upgrade
- highway drainage improvements
- signing upgrades
Programme and delays
Progress has been impacted by issues encountered during piling and by the fixing of reinforcement to the high-skew deck, which have contributed to overall delay to the programme.
The current programme indicates that Jose’s Lane is expected to reopen by the end of February 2026.
Photos of the site
Contact us
For any questions or concerns, please contact us at highway.engineeringdesignq-mailbox@devon.gov.uk.