Iconic bridge scheduled for refurbishment closure

The renowned Clifton Suspension Bridge is scheduled for a weekend closure to facilitate refurbishment activities. This temporary shutdown will enable essential inspections, painting, and electrical maintenance on the structure, a design by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The bridge will be inaccessible to vehicular traffic and cyclists starting at 19:00 GMT on Friday, November 22, and reopening at 07:00 on Monday, November 25. Pedestrians, however, will retain access. A designated diversion will utilize Bridge Valley Road, Brunel Way, and the A369 Rownham Hill, with vehicles following this route being exempt from Clean Air Zone fees. These works form a component of a two-year initiative aimed at safeguarding the historic wrought iron chains of the Grade I listed bridge against corrosion. A specialized protective paint is being applied for their preservation, and future plans include modernizing the bridge’s illumination system. The Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust has stated that many of the bridge’s chain links date back 180 years. While cyclists are permitted to dismount and walk their bicycles across during the closure, the trust advises them to avoid the bridge if feasible, due to the availability of only one narrow footway.