THE iconic Silver Jubilee Bridge is closing to drivers for three months for a new hi-tech lighting scheme to be installed.

The fully controllable LED system will allow the bridge to be lit up in different colours to celebrate various events and mark special occasions.

The illumination will be colour synchronised to match the Mersey Gateway.

The bridge between Runcorn and Widnes will shut to traffic from tomorrow, Monday.

The closures will be in place during the day between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, for three months.

Buses, pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to cross the bridge.

Motorists will be diverted to the Mersey Gateway.

Cllr Stef Nelson, Halton Council portfolio holder for environment and urban Rrenewal, said: “Installing this fantastic modern lighting on the Silver Jubilee Bridge has been an aspiration of ours for several years.

“Both of our bridges are iconic structures which are architecturally impressive.

“We feel this improved lighting will help boost the position of the SJB as a major landmark in the north west, and help contribute towards promoting a night time economy and culture in the borough.”

The work includes stripping out the old lighting, including all associated electrical services, followed by installation and testing of the new system.

As the council’s contractors will need to work on the bridge’s arch, it is necessary for the work to be carried out under full daytime closures of the bridge.

While the installation work is underway, the council’s contractors will also be undertaking a range of routine maintenance activities on the structure.

The new lights are expected to be switched on in May.

The scheme will not impact on the budget for council services.