We're carrying out vital repairs to historic Cheshire swing bridge

We're carrying out the vital works on the Grade II-Listed wrought iron bridge, which carries the A533 over the Weaver Navigation in Northwich town centre, later this month.

Road closures and diverted routes

Cheshire West and Chester Council and us carry out regular routine inspections of the bridge, which identified that the timber threshold plate needed replacing. Specialist contractors working on our behalf will replace the oak timber threshold plate, which will require the bridge to be swung open to enable the works to be carried out.

The bridge will be closed overnight to all traffic during the project to minimise disruption, on Friday, 13 November, and Saturday, 14 November, from 7pm – 5am.

To carry out the work safely, the road across the bridge will be closed between Town Bridge (A533) and the Bull Ring. While the closure is in place, temporary traffic arrangements will allow two-way traffic on Castle Street and Chester Way.

Diversion routes will be clearly signposted for drivers needing to travel across the river. The closure only affects the bridge itself, with access for residents, businesses and visitors maintained on surrounding roads.

Ground breaking technology

Cath Sheil, our project manager, explains: “Historic Town Swing Bridge and its sister structure Hayhurst Swing Bridge used ground-breaking technology when they first opened at the turn of the last century and are still going strong 127-years later.

“We’ll be carrying out these vital repairs to the historic features sensitively, balancing the need to preserve the bridge’s important heritage assets with the operational demands of a heavily used vehicle route through Northwich. We really appreciate the local community’s patience and understanding whilst we carry out this maintenance work, and we apologise for any inconvenience the works may cause.”

Minimising disruption

Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation, said: “The Canal & River Trust's planned repairs are important to help ensure the continued safe use of Town Bridge for both motorists and pedestrians.

“We have worked closely with the Trust to facilitate their essential works and minimise disruption by enabling them to be undertaken overnight. We would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and understanding while this necessary maintenance is carried out."

Buidling resiliance

Opened in 1899, Town Swing Bridge was designed by John Arthur Sanur and built by Andrew Handyside and Co and features black and white asymmetrical bowstring lattice girder design.

Cath added: “Thousands of motorists use Town Swing Bridge every week, so it’s a priority for both the Trust and the council to keep it in good working order. These vital works will ensure the bridge is more resilient for many years to come.”