The work has been arranged by us and is being funded by Cheshire West and Chester Council. Contractors, Kier, will be carrying out the repairs, which are expected to be completed by July 2017.
The project involves a complete refurbishment of the bridge deck, including strengthening works to the underside of the bridge as well as improvements to the bridge appearance.
During the works, the towpath underneath the bridge and the pedestrian walkway over the bridge will remain open as far as is reasonably practicable.
While the works take place, the traffic over the bridge will be restricted to one lane which will be operated by traffic lights.
A height restriction up to 2.5m for boats will also be in place underneath the bridge between 23 January 2017 and 31 March 2017 so the bridge will not be able to swing during these times.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Environment, Councillor Karen Shore said: "The Council is committed to ongoing investment in our highway network and has provided the full funding for these repairs. This project shows excellent partnership working between the Canal & River Trust and the Council.
"The route is important to both the borough and the local community. Traffic lights will be manually-operated during peak hours to minimise the impact of these works."
Richard Spencer, project manager at the Canal & River Trust said: "These essential deck strengthening works follow the emergency repairs carried out in December 2014 and July 2015 and will safeguard the bridge for many years to come. We're delighted to be starting this work in January in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council. The project we're carrying out will mean the 84-year old bridge is refurbished for the thousands of vehicles who use this vital route everyday."
Boating enquiries:
- During office hours, please contact the Canal & River Trust's North Wales & Borders Customer Service Team in Northwich on 0303 040 4040 or email [email protected]
- For out of hours enquiries, please contact the Canal & River Trust free phone emergency number on 0800 799 947.
Traffic enquiries:
- During office hours, please contact the Cheshire West and Chester Council Highways team on 0300 123 7036 or email [email protected]
- For out of hours enquiries, please contact Cheshire West and Chester Council on 0300 123 7036.
