Marlow Bridge will be closed from 15th August to 26th August 2016, and make the most of the view for now – since there will be scaffolding up for a while after!
Diversion signs will be in place, to direct vehicles via High Street, Spittal Street, Chapel Street, Little Marlow Road, A404, Marlow Road, Bisham Road and vice versa. Pedestrian access will be maintained on at least one side of the bridge, at all times.
Bucks County Council have now advised the detail of the work to be carried out, and the timings:
You might recall that two years ago work was done to replace the bridge surfacing, and general cleaning of the metal suspension chains and hangers including touch up paining.
This year, they are undertaking repairs to the roofs on the two stonework towers which house the steel frame supports for the suspension bridge. This will protect and prolong the life of the bridge.
To gain access to the top of the towers, they need to install scaffolding – and to do this safely the bridge needs to be closed for two weeks.
During the closure The Council are also taking the opportunity to
- refurbish the traffic islands at each end of the bridge
- carry out inspection of the suspension chains and hangers.
- undertake general repairs to the lanterns if necessary
- refresh the road marking on the bridge approaches
As soon as the scaffolding towers have been installed the road will be re-opened and the works on the stone towers can be carried out without affecting the traffic.
Then on Monday 24th October the bridge will need to be closed again for one week to dismantle the scaffolding.
Why no cameras to deter those that abuse the weight limit ? Thus saving those who pay high rates to repair the damage caused by HGV’s ploughing through the restrictions.