The Canal & River Trust has started a programme of repairs to Sellars Swing Bridge, which carries Sellars Road over the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.
Increased vehicle weight has taken a toll on the condition of the bridge, which connects Hardwicke and Quedgeley with Elmore. The Trust is making improvements that will strengthen it for future use, while also making repairs to concrete that has corroded at the end of the bridge.
Damaged road plates that are causing high levels of noise when traffic crosses the bridge are being replaced, the balance is being corrected so the bridge doesn’t move when it’s used by vehicles, and new handrails are being installed.
The repairs are due to finish on August 30 and will require the bridge to be closed to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.
A signposted diversion route is in place for vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists can travel a short distance up the canal to Rea Bridge to cross.
Molly Richards from Canal & River Trust explained: “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.
“Over the years the increased weight of vehicles using the bridge has affected its condition, so we need to carry out these repairs to protect it. We’re taking the opportunity to make some improvements, reducing the noise of vehicles crossing and correcting the sway of the bridge.
“We know that the repairs 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.”
During the works 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.
Updates will be available to view on the notices section of the Canal & River Trust website: Notices and stoppages | Canal & River Trust (canalrivertrust.org.uk)
To find out more about the Trust, including how you can support its vital work, go to canalrivertrust.org.uk.
