Planned work for Marlow Bridge completed early
Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) brought forward essential maintenance works for Marlow’s iconic suspension bridge, to utilise the reduced volume of traffic on the roads. The work on the Grade One listed structure was originally planned to start in September and, due to Covid-19, the decision was made to split the project into two phases with the first phase brought forward to the spring.
Phase 1 of the project started on 18th May and was successfully completed in three weeks, two weeks ahead of schedule. The essential maintenance work included the cleaning of the towers, repairs to the roof of the towers and repainting of the chains, kerbs and hangers.
For the work to be completed as quickly and safely as possible, the bridge had to be closed to vehicles using a 24-hour road closure. During this time, a one-way system was implemented for pedestrians and cyclists, providing safe social distancing for the public, as well as the onsite crews.
Prior to the bridge being closed, Cadent Gas had started essential maintenance work on the Bisham side of the bridge, upgrading a gas main. TfB worked closely with Cadent Gas and The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, and this successful collaboration ensured there were no disruptions to the projects, crews or local residents. During the entirety of Phase 1, Marlow Rowing Club generously donated the use of their car park, which was used as the main TfB site compound.
Phase 2 of the scheme will commence in Spring 2021 to repaint the timber parapets and to replace some of the bridge bearings.
Buckinghamshire Council Cabinet Member for Transportation, Nick Naylor, said:
“I am so pleased that we were able to carry out this essential work on Marlow Bridge with minimal disruption to the public. Thank you to Marlow Rowing Club and Cadent Gas for their assistance during Phase 1. TfB will continue to do all it can to protect and preserve this iconic structure for future generations.”
TfB has a long-term strategy in place to safeguard the listed bridge for current and future generations and, as part of this strategy, there is an ongoing requirement to undertake routine maintenance and refurbishment.
