The Winterstoke Road Bridge in Weston-super-Mare, dating back to WWII, is set for replacement due to structural concerns.
- A significant investment of £20M has been allocated for the construction of a new bridge.
- North Somerset Council collaborates with Octavius Infrastructure to ensure seamless access for traffic.
- The Ministry of Defence has increased its funding to counter rising costs.
- Construction will initiate in 2025, with completion targeted for 2027.
North Somerset Council has taken definitive steps towards the replacement of the Winterstoke Road Bridge, a vital route constructed during the Second World War. Built in 1943 by the Ministry of Defence, this bridge has become a critical infrastructure piece requiring urgent replacement due to structural degradation. Currently, a weight limit of 7.5 tonnes is applied to the bridge to prolong its life, but full closure is feared within five to ten years if significant remedial action is not undertaken.
To address this, a construction contract has been signed with Octavius Infrastructure, marking a proactive initiative to replace the bridge, thus removing existing weight restrictions. This collaboration aims to guarantee uninterrupted access for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, linking Weston-super-Mare town centre to various residential and industrial districts.
Originally, the MoD allocated £10.8 million for the project in 2019, but an additional £9 million was committed in 2023 to offset inflation and burgeoning construction costs. The new bridge, when completed, will not only support an increased load but will also feature enhancements such as a cycle lane and broader pavements, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and future-proofing the transport network.
Chris Hudson, Octavius delivery director for highways, highlighted the historic nature of this project, noting its origins in MoD initiatives during the 1940s. The project is at the design phase, with construction activities slated to commence in early 2025, aiming for completion by the spring of 2027. The focus remains on meticulous planning to minimise disruption to local businesses and communities.
Mike Bell, North Somerset Council leader, underscored the community’s reliance on this bridge for daily commutes, expressing dedication to enhancing the local transport network’s capacity and resilience. The project’s scope extends beyond mere physical replacement; it encapsulates a vision for regional growth by lifting current travel limitations and maintaining robust connectivity across modes of transport. Stakeholders expect the new construction to serve as a catalyst for economic and community development, facilitating broader regional integration.
The replacement of the Winterstoke Road Bridge stands as a transformative infrastructure project, promising enhanced connectivity for generations to come.
