MONTHS of motoring misery is ahead for users of Bidford Bridge.
The 15th century monument is undergoing major structural repair and stone renovation works over the next six months.
It will be closed completely to vehicles for the first two weeks of work commencing Monday February 16.
A signed diversion route will be in place to the south of Bidford, via the B4085 and use of the A46.
After that the bridge will be open for the next 26 weeks but Warwickshire County Council has warned motorists to expect delays. The road will then be closed completely for a further week at the end of the planned works.
Pedestrians will still be able to use the bridge while cyclists are instructed to dismount.
It is estimated that six months working time is required for the stone masons to dismantle and rebuild the cutwater faces and parapet at the Grade I listed bridge. The programme is reliant on suitable weather conditions.
A statement on WCC’s website reads: “Noise and dust levels will be carefully managed throughout the project to minimise disruption to nearby residents, businesses, and road users. Works will be carried out during standard daytime hours, and noisy activities will be scheduled to avoid early mornings and evenings where possible.The project team will monitor environmental impacts regularly and respond promptly to any concerns raised by the public.”
It is the second time in as many years that Bidford Bridge has been shut. It was closed for almost five months in 2024 to allow for repair works following an accident which caused significant damage.
A taxi became wedged after crashing into the wall of the narrow bridge, damaging the parapet and leaving it structurally unsafe.
The bridge reopened in December of that year, two weeks behind schedule, following complex repairs. They included employing specialist stonemasons to carry out the work, and permission was also needed from Historic England as the historic bridge is a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
At the time, businesses in Bidford reported suffering a severe drop in trade as the bridge repairs kept shoppers away.
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/major-transport-construction-projects/b4085-bidford-avon-river-bridge/3 for more details on the latest closure.
