The lane closure on Exeter’s Bridge Road bascule bridge will remain in place after further investigations uncovered previously hidden cracks and significant corrosion beneath the bridge deck.
Emergency lane restrictions were introduced on the A379 Bridge Road on Monday after engineers identified an issue with fixings beneath the bridge deck. During repair work, further defects, including cracks and more extensive corrosion, were discovered.
The newly identified issues are beneath the bridge deck and are not visible from the road surface. Engineers say the defects only became apparent as repairs progressed and components were exposed for closer inspection.
Devon County Council is continuing to investigate repair options and has arranged specialist testing of the entire bridge deck next week. This will include ultrasonic testing to help assess the condition of the structure and inform the next phase of repairs.
The lane closure has been maintained as a precaution while engineers continue their assessments and repair work.
The bridge is over 50 years old and is at the end of its expected life. A consultation was held earlier this year on plans to replace it and the adjacent swing bridge.
The safety of everyone using the bridge remains our priority, and the lane closure will stay in place until engineers are satisfied that it is safe to reopen.
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