Background
Iron Bridge, a Grade II listed structure built in 1834, consists of six spans formed of cast iron arches. Originally constructed to facilitate horse-drawn transport accessing the city’s North Gate, the 190-year-old bridge now requires significant refurbishments to address various defects, including drainage issues, damage to cast iron members, and surfacing defects.
Additionally, there is an ongoing issue with overweight and wide vehicles using Iron Bridge despite existing restrictions. Temporary concrete blocks have been installed to mitigate this problem, as these vehicles could potentially damage the structure. However, these have been a temporary solution.
What we are doing
The refurbishment of Iron Bridge includes the following:
- Structural repairs
- Waterproofing of the bridge deck
- Highway drainage improvements
- Signing and lighting upgrades
- Resurfacing
- New expansion joints
- Improved layout
- Relocation of utilities
Waterproofing the bridge deck is essential to prevent water ingress, which is causing damage to the structure. This process will require the removal of existing surfacing and footways to install the new waterproofing.
During the refurbishment, the highway layout across Iron Bridge will be adjusted to better suit the one-way arrangement introduced in 2021. The south footway will be widened to 2 meters to improve pedestrian access and support local businesses. Additionally, a segregated cycle lane will be provided for cyclists travelling towards the city centre.
A new narrowing arrangement will be implemented to ensure better compliance with existing restrictions. The 1.8-meter width restriction and 3-tonne weight limit will remain unchanged. Drivers are reminded to be aware of their vehicle’s size and weight and to use Iron Bridge only if their vehicle complies with the signed limits.
The works are being undertaken by Bridge Civil Engineering Ltd on behalf of Devon County Council.
Traffic management
Works are scheduled to commence on January 13, 2025, and are expected to take five months to complete, with a projected completion date in mid-June 2025.
Iron Bridge will be closed for the full duration of the works, from the junctions of Dinham Road to Paul Street. This closure will be in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week until the works are completed. Details regarding diversion routes are provided below.
To facilitate repairs to the underside of the structure, public permit parking spaces on Lower North Street, located under Iron Bridge, will be closed. Permit holders will need to find alternative parking locations during this time.
Access to the City Gate Hotel, surrounding businesses, and properties will be maintained at all times, and businesses will remain open as usual. The public is asked to follow on-site signage and be aware that access arrangements may change during the works.
Working hours are expected to be 07:00 – 19:00 on weekdays. No work is expected to take place on weekends, but closures and restrictions will remain in place at all times. Any changes from this will be communicated to local residents and businesses.
Diversion route
Iron Bridge will be closed to all users for the duration of the works. Access to the City Gate Hotel and adjacent businesses will be maintained at all times.
A full traffic diversion will be in place via South Street, B3212 Western Way, Paris Street, New North Road, B3183 Hele Road, and St Davids Hill. More information on the diversion route can be found via one.network.
Pedestrians are advised to use Lower North Street, which runs alongside Iron Bridge. Shown in blue below. Alternative step-free access is available via Queen Street. Shown in green.
Cyclists will be diverted via Paul Street, Queen Street, New North Road, B312 Hele Road, St Davids Hill, and Iron Bridge, and vice versa. Shown in Magenta below.
Further information
Noise and dust
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 minimize the impact on local residents and surrounding properties.
Weight and width limit
A structural assessment of Iron Bridge has confirmed that it is only suitable for vehicles up to 3 tonnes in weight. The width restriction serves as a physical barrier to limit the size of vehicles crossing the bridge, protecting the fragile Grade II listed structure from potential damage by heavier vehicles.
Due to the cast iron construction and the bridge’s listed status, it is not feasible to strengthen the bridge to increase these limits.
Future works on the iron bridge
Following the completion of the major refurbishments, Iron Bridge will undergo a full repaint. This will involve the complete removal of the existing paint system before repainting. Typically, bridges with painted elements need to be repainted every 20 to 25 years, depending on environmental conditions and the type of paint used. Iron Bridge was last repainted in the early 2000s and is now due for repainting.
The repainting is not included in these works to ensure that all defects and drainage issues are fully addressed first. It is expected a repainting scheme will take place in 2 – 5 years. This approach will maximise the lifespan of the new paint system and minimise future maintenance costs.
Contact information
For any questions or concerns regarding the refurbishment works, please get in touch.