Harrowside bridge is set to close immediately due to safety issues highlighted during a recent inspection.



Harrowside bridge will close to all traffic whilst a repair plan is put in place.

Pedestrians will still be able to use the footpath during the closure and businesses on the bridge will be open as usual.

Due to serious deterioration, engineers have identified the bridge as a safety risk to the public and it must now be closed until further notice. Recent checks have revealed that steel reinforcements have corroded by 40% which means that essential repair work will need to take place.

Blackpool Council is working closely with Network Rail to undertake the repair work and aim for it to begin later this year under the same rail line closure as Squires Gate bridge.

Drivers are advised that traffic travelling northbound will be diverted along Clifton Drive, Burlington Road West, Bond Street, Watson Road and Lytham Road.

Southbound traffic will be sent along Lytham Road, Squires Gate Lane and Clifton Drive.

John Blackledge, Director of Community and Environmental Services at Blackpool Council, said: “We have had to close Harrowside bridge with immediate effect due to safety reasons.

“We regularly carry out inspections to make sure road users are safe and a recent inspection revealed that the bridge repairs are required urgently.

“We need to undertake maintenance work to the bridge’s deck supports which is why the bridge will now close until further notice.

“We will be working with Network Rail and will update our website as soon as possible.

“Drivers are advised to be aware of diversions that are in place and to plan trips in advance. Access for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will be maintained throughout the work.

“We apologise for the inconvenience during these essential works.”

For more information and updates on the scheme including road closures and diversion routes visit www.blackpool.gov.uk/Harrowside