Warning ahead of Bath North Parade bridge closure
There'll be disruption
Cars and some boats face disruption as a bridge in the centre of Bath will close for an estimated six weeks later this month.
North Parade Bridge across the River Avon will close from May 20 for waterproofing and masonry works, with investigations and repairs to the underside of the bridge. The work is currently estimated to take six weeks — subject to findings from initial investigations.
The bridge will be closed to cars and cyclists but open for pedestrians. A temporary pontoon will be set up under the bridge which Bath and North East Somerset Council warned may restrict the movement of larger boats.
Manda Rigby, council cabinet member for transport, said: “Closing North Parade Bridge is necessary as we carry out essential maintenance works to this historic structure, which was built in 1836.
“The works are estimated to take six weeks, but as with any project on a historic asset, there is always the possibility that other defects may be discovered when we start uncovering the surface. Please take the time to plan your journey if you cross the bridge regularly and follow the signed diversion route. We apologise for any disruption during these essential works.”
The council added that access to the leisure centre, cricket club, and local business will be unaffected. Contractors Volker Highways will carry out the works and an email address — highways_projects@bathnes.gov.uk — has been set up for queries about the works. A diversion route will be in place.
Cleveland Bridge — built ten years before North Parade Bridge — closed for an expected three months of repairs in June 2021 but only fully reopened to two way traffic in October 2022 after severe corrosion was discovered in the structure.