A key bridge near the city centre of Bristol has closed as final works and staff training take place. Redcliffe Bascule Bridge, located next to Queen Square, closed this morning (January 20) to road users and will remain closed during the day until Friday, February 7.
The bridge, which was built in 1942, was subject to a £3 million extensive refurbishment scheme between 2022 and 2023. This focused on addressing structural problems and upgrading the mechanical and electrical elements of the bridge. In February 2024, the bridge was closed for five days as further work was needed.
Bristol City Council said that final adjustments to the lifting systems for the bridge will be completed during the closures, which will be ongoing until the end of the first week of February. The bridge is made up of two fixed spans and a lifting ‘bascule’ span which enables larger boats to enter Welsh Back.
Once the adjustment works are completed, harbour staff will be trained on how to operate the bridge. To make sure the work and training is carried out safely, the bridge will close to all users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
The closure is scheduled for during the day, between 9.30am and 3.30pm, everyday from Monday, January 20 to Friday, February 7, according to the final notice provided on One.Network. This is despite the council saying the closure will be in operation until Friday, January 31.
Whilst Redcliffe Bascule Bridge is closed, road users will need to follow the signposted diversion route across Bristol Bridge. Motorists following the diversion during the times the bridge is closed will not be fined for driving through the Bristol Bridge bus gate.
For drivers east of the closure, the diversion is listed as:
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Redcliffe Way Roundabout
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Temple Gate
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Victoria Street
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Bristol Bridge
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Baldwin Street
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Marsh Street
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Prince Street
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The Grove
For drivers west of the bridge, the diversion is listed as:
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The Grove
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Prince Street
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Marsh Street
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Baldwin Street
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Bristol Bridge
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Victoria Street
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Temple Gate
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Bath Bridge Roundabout
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Temple Gate
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Redcliffe Way Roundabout
Pedestrians and cyclists can use either Bristol Bridge or Prince Street Bridge during the closure.