Bridge reopens after £200k resurfacing works

The old road surface on the bridge had expired

A bridge in Gloucester has reopened following essential safety works over the course of three weeks, at a cost of more than £200,000.

The Canal and River Trust announced on Sunday that High Orchard Bridge, which carries St Ann Way over the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal, is now open to vehicles and cyclists again.

The trust worked with contractor Kier to remove the old road surface, repair road plates, and resurface the road with a specialist resin material.

Neil Owen from the trust said the bridge was "an important structure in the city and on the canal."

The pavement and towpath remained open during the bridge's closure, and boats below the height of 16.4ft (5m) were able to use the navigation.

Now the bridge has reopened, vessels above this height are able to navigate through the bridge when it is lifted.

"The improvements will benefit road users who cross the canal over St Ann Way and we worked seven days a week to deliver them quickly and minimise disruption," Mr Owen said.

"This follows the work undertaken by the Canal & River Trust earlier this year to make repairs to the bridge so it could be safely lifted for the ships entering Gloucester Docks for the Tall Ships Festival.

"We are grateful for people’s patience while the work took place to deliver these safety works and improvements."