Six-week closure of major bridge in Peterborough begins as altered bus routes announced
A six-week closure of a major bridge in Peterborough has officially begun.
The bridge on Peterborough Road between Stanground and Farcet will be shut for six weeks while vital stress absorption joints are replace.
Diversions for pedestrians and motorists will be in place throughout that time.
Councillor Angus Ellis, cabinet member for transport at Peterborough City Council, said: "It is important that these works are completed to ensure the longevity of the structure.
"We have been mindful that the closure will create a challenge for some people and have tried to minimise the impact of the works by completing during the school holidays.
"We will progress the scheme as quickly as possible and would like to thank people for their patience and understanding whilst the joints are replaced."
A bridge joint is a gap between two sections of a bridge that allows for the expansion and contraction that occurs with differing temperatures, winds and heavy loads.
They also act as stress absorption and prevent water and debris damaging the internal structure of the bridge.
Over time the joints deteriorate and require replacement to maintain the structural integrity of the bridge.
The works will be delivered by M Group, which is the council's highways partner.
A council spokesperson added: “We would encourage people to familiarise themselves with the diversion routes and allow additional time for their journeys.”
The closure of the bridge means that the number 5 bus service operated by Stagecoach will be unable to serve Farcet throughout this time. A free bus which links Farcet Church via the normal route to Broadway, Windsor Road has been arranged.
As for Central Connect’s 26 and 26A bus: Service 26 from Queensgate bus station will operate as normal as far as Stanground ALDI, where it will then terminate and not operate through to Farcet or Yaxley. From Stanground ALDI, services will then return to Queensgate Bus Station as service 26A at normal times.
Service 26A from Queensgate bus station will operate as normal through Longthorpe, Lodge Way & Yaxley as far as Farcet Main Street, where it will terminate and not operate through to Stanground. From Farcet Main Street, services will then return to Queensgate Bus Station as service 26 at normal times.
For full details, visit the Central Connect website.