URGENT repairs to Winnington Swing Bridge will begin later this month, with motorists being warned to expect road closures.

Restoration work to the 110-year-old, Grade II-listed bridge which carries the A533 between Winnington and Barnton over the River Weaver is necessary to avoid longer, more disruptive closures should its condition deteriorate further.

Without the repairs, a 7.5 tonne weight restriction would need to be enforced.

While the repairs are carried out, the structure will be closed to all vehicles from 10pm on Sunday, August 16, through to midnight on Thursday, August 27.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has said it will work closely with the Canal and River Trust to minimise disruption to motorists during the vital repair project.

Cllr Louise Gittins, council leader and cabinet member for wellbeing, said: “These are vital works, and I would like to thank residents in advance for their patience and support while they are completed.

Northwich Guardian:

“The council has secured a total of £930K funding for this project, which has allowed the scope of the works to be increased to include strengthening and painting.

“The repairs will mostly be to the underside of the bridge and teams will be working underneath the bridge in areas that are not visible to the public.

“Any work outside of the road closures will be carefully planned not to affect traffic flow.

“Pedestrians will be able to cross the bridge at all times and will be safely directed away from the works.”

Richard Spencer, project team leader for the Canal and River Trust, added: “We continue to monitor the bridge structure regularly and will work closely with the council to complete the repair project and secure the future of this key heritage structure.

“It is important for these works to go ahead well before the winter and secure this vital road link for Northwich.”

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Additional closures are also provisionally scheduled from 10pm on Friday, September 25, to 5am on Monday, September 28, and from 10pm on Friday, October 9, to 5am on Monday, October 12.

This is to install additional beams to further strengthen the bridge.

The council has also stressed that while work is being undertaken to the existing bridge to ensure the route remains accessible, long-term plans are being considered for further improvements along the Winnington corridor.

It plans to engage with the neighbouring community about emerging options during the autumn.