Weaver swing bridge reopens

Published: Monday, 17 July 2017

ACTON Swing Bridge that carries the busy A59 over the Weaver is to reopen after a £1.5 million repair project.

After six months work to strengthen the bridge deck, that was considered no longer safe for the increased heavy goods vehicle weight, it will open on Wednesday.

Acton Bridge worksThe work on the 84 years old swing bridge, though cared for by the Canal & River Trust has been funded by Cheshire West and Chester Council. In addition to strengthening the underside of the bridge, a new waterproofing layer has been applied to the bridge deck that should help to provide a more durable road surface for the future.

Clive Mitchell, Project Team Manager with the Trust, explained:

“We’re delighted to have the bridge back in good condition and ready to reopen. The essential repairs will safeguard the bridge for many years to come. Once the road surface was removed it was clear that the steelwork needed more repairs than anticipated, but these have now been completed and we’re looking forward to the bridge fully reopening on schedule."