PLANS have been confirmed for a temporary two-way crossing over the River Weaver in Frodsham while vital work is under way on the Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge.
The decision follows months of discussions between Cheshire West and Chester Council and the Canal & River Trust as to how they can mitigate the perceived congestion during the essential works.
Earlier this year, the two organisations agreed a £4.5m programme of strengthening, refurbishment and painting to enable the bridge to cope with current loading requirements and increase its life expectancy by a minimum of 50 years.
To avoid a lengthy diversion route, it was originally envisaged that road traffic over the bridge would be reduced to a single lane controlled by traffic lights.
However, after listening to comments from local business leaders, Frodsham Foundation and residents, the council and trust agreed to undertake feasibility work into a two-way temporary crossing to maintain traffic flows and reduce congestion.
It has now been agreed that work on the temporary structure will commence in summer 2013 when foundations will be laid and road alignment work undertaken ahead of installation.
The swing bridge will be closed to road traffic in July 2013 while river navigation will be restricted from June 2013.
The bridge will then be encapsulated to enable the works to be completed. The refurbished structure will be opened in autumn 2014.
Executive member for community and environment Lynn Riley, who is a Frodsham councillor, said: “This is fantastic news for local residents and businesses that rely on free-flowing traffic.
“Both the council and the trust have worked extremely hard to achieve a solution and we are pleased to confirm that the two-way temporary bridge is a viable option.”
Cllr Andrew Dawson said: “I am delighted that the council and the trust have listened to the concerns of local residents and businesses and that this has produced such a positive outcome.
“Frodsham is heavily dependent on its road crossing over the River Weaver, so it is excellent news that two-way access will be maintained throughout the duration of this vital work.”
George Ballinger, head of engineering for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Our project team has worked hard with the contractors on design and costs.
“I’m pleased that we can now confirm that we will install a temporary bridge to maintain the two-way crossing over the River Weaver whilst we carry out the main refurbishment works to the ageing bridge.”
Further information about the Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge works is available from www.talkingwestcheshire.org.uk/swingbridge.
