Essential maintenance on iconic swing bridge enters final phase

The works

We’re carrying out the vital works to the bridge, which crosses the River Weaver near Frodsham, to replace and repair existing mechanical and electrical elements to ensure the 100-year-old structure is safe and fit for purpose.

Specialist engineers working on our behalf have installed a new control panel, road barriers, signalling and navigation lights, and are in the process of rewiring, installing new drive motors and reinstating the refurbished major mechanical components.

And, in order to carry out the final commissioning of the works and complete the project, a full road closure is required, which will take place during the February school half-term to minimise disruption.

The bridge will be closed to all traffic, including pedestrians and cyclists, from 12.01am on Sunday, 15 February, to 12.01am on Sunday, 22 February. The local commercial bus service will continue to operate, via the motorway or will terminate at Frodsham, and the Canal & River Trust is also providing a free shuttle bus, from Sunday to Saturday, during the closure.

Shuttle buses will run at the following times:

• Sutton Weaver side – 6.30am, 7.30am, 4.30pm, 5.30pm
• Frodsham side – 7am, 8am, 5pm, 6pm

Protecting the operation of the bridge

A spokesperson for us explains: “These vital maintenance and repair works, which are a priority to protect the long-term operation of the bridge, are on schedule to be completed in March. We have worked closely with the council, local partners and our contractors and have made every effort to keep any disruption to a minimum.

“As these commissioning works require a full road closure for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, they have been carefully planned and arranged during the February school half-term to help reduce their impact. We really appreciate the local community’s patience and understanding whilst we carry out this final phase of the project, and we apologise for any inconvenience these essential works may cause.”

A top priority

The iconic metal swing bridge, which opened in 1926, carries the busy A56 road over the River Weaver Navigation, close to junction 12 of the M56 motorway in North Cheshire. It replaced an earlier swing bridge built in 1872 and is one of five large swing bridges that take public roads across the River Weaver.

Our spokesperson added: “Thousands of motorists use Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge every week, so it’s a top priority for both the Trust and the council to keep it in good working order. These vital works will ensure the bridge is more reliable and resilient for many years to come.”