Railway bridge closes to traffic for two years

Winterstoke Railway Bridge will be shut to traffic for two years

A key railway bridge has been closed for about two years as the ageing structure is replaced.

Winterstoke Railway Bridge in Weston-super-Mare closed to traffic earlier, with pedestrians able to use a replacement bridge.

The existing structure was built during World War Two and North Somerset Council said it was nearing the end of its lifespan, and would have to close permanently within the next five to 10 years.

Council leader Mike Bell said: "Winterstoke Road has a long history of serving our area, with the bridge dating back over 80 years to when it connected Weston's workers with the RAF's aeroplane factory."

Demolition of the existing bridge will start in December, followed by works to build a new bridge that will secure the route along Winterstoke Road for 125 years, the council said.

A diversion for drivers is in place

The leader of Weston-super-Mare Town council and councillor for the Winterstoke Ward, Ciaran Cronnelly, asked people to use the footbridge when possible.

"Whilst it won't be suitable for all journeys, each shorter and more manageable trip taken over the footbridge can reduce the number of cars using diversion routes, meaning we can each do our bit to improve traffic flows for our family, friends and neighbours when they do need to use the roads," he said.

The planned replacement of Winterstoke Road bridge is being funded by the Ministry of Defence with the project delivered by North Somerset Council.

The new bridge is expected to open to traffic in 2027.