Drypool Bridge in Hull has been closed for two weeks after routine structural surveys found “significant” deterioration to some of its concrete columns – and repairs could take up to a year, Hull City Council has said.
Following an inspection of the bridge on Thursday, April 11, several of its load-bearing columns were found to be deteriorated.
Over the next fortnight, engineers will undertake further surveys and conduct dredging work to inspect the columns under the water line. A contractor will then be appointed to begin the complex repair work necessary to replace the columns. The work is anticipated to take between seven and 12 months, during which there will need to be a series of full closures.
The bridge will remain open to pedestrians, cyclists and river traffic.
Motorists who use Drypool Bridge to travel into the city centre have been urged to take notice of the diversion routes and plan their journeys accordingly. Buses will continue to run normally via the diversion routes. Meanwhile on North Bridge, essential overnight closures – from midnight to 6am – are due to conclude on Friday, April 19. During these hours it is recommended that motorists use Stoneferry and Myton bridges only to cross the river Hull.
Garry Taylor, assistant director of major projects, culture and place, said: “The council carries out structural surveys every six months to make sure our bridges continue to be safe for all road users.
“Since the last inspection in November, several of the load-bearing columns have deteriorated significantly, and extensive repair works are required.
“We appreciate the impact this disruption will have and apologise to all those who will be affected. However, the safety of our citizens is always our top priority, and we must ensure the bridge is safe before reopening to motorists.
“Signed diversion routes will be in place throughout the works and we are modifying our wider traffic control processes in the city and working with our partners to mitigate as much as we can.”
It comes as a series of overnight closures on the A63 Castle Street get under way from Wednesday, April 17.
The A63 between Daltry Street and Roger Millward Way will be closed between 8pm and 6am the next day on the following dates:
Westbound full closures:
April 17, 18, 19 and 21, and 23, 24, 25 and 28 (eight nights)
Eastbound full closures:
April 19, 24, 25 and 26 (four nights)
