We are to carry out principal inspection of iconic swing bridge

We will conduct the scheduled principal inspection on Thursday, 12 December, weather permitting.

The inspection

Engineers will use a specialist drone to help complete the checks which will remove the need for work platforms or an overnight road closure. They will be checking the civil components of the structure, including access into the caisson/pontoon.

The bridge will need to be swung open twice during the inspection, for approximately 15 minutes – from start to finish – each time, to allow normally obscured elements to be seen.

Any findings or recommendations from the inspection will be incorporated into the essential maintenance and repair works, which are provisionally being rescheduled for the school summer holidays next year.

Ensuring the safety of the bridge

Matthew Pickering, our senior engineer, said: “We have been liaising with Cheshire West & Chester Council to carry out this scheduled principal inspection of Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge. The inspection is part of ensuring that the bridge remains a safe and reliable transport link for residents, commuters and visitors.

“Specialist engineers will carry out the inspection and the bridge will need to be swung open for a short time to allow them access into normally obscured sections of the bridge. We would like to thank, in advance, residents and road users for their patience and understanding while we carry out this important inspection.”