AN ICONIC landmark in Chester is to get a new lease of life as the council prepares to clean, refurbish and paint the much-loved bridge across the River Dee.
Since 1923 the Queen’s Park Suspension Bridge has stood as a gleaming landmark connecting the city to the shops of Handbridge, welcoming visitors who flock to the waterfront to watch rowers race along the river and brass bands performing on the much-loved bandstand.
Now, just weeks after the Olympic Torch was carried out of the city across the 89 year-old bridge, Cheshire West and Chester Council has started months of improvement work on the structure, which will see it returned to its glistening white state.
Since Monday workers have been preparing to revamp the bridge, cleaning and repainting the steelwork, before installing new non-slip surfacing panels which will be put on top of the existing wooden planks to improve pedestrian safety during wet and icy weather.
Councillor Lynn Riley, executive member for community and environment, welcomed the work.
She said: “The refurbishment work will enhance the appearance of the bridge and allow pedestrians to enjoy the river crossing in safety.”
The works are expected to last until the end of autumn, however the bridge will still remain open for residents and businesses along the Groves and Grosvenor Park Terrace.
Handbridge Park councillor Razia Daniels said: “I am delighted that this work is being carried out.”
