Final testing of Redcliffe Bascule Bridge lifting systems
Following a recent £3 million extensive refurbishment of Redcliffe Bascule Bridge, including structural, mechanical and electrical repairs, final adjustments to the bridge’s lifting systems will be completed this month.
Once this work has been finished, harbour staff will be trained on how to operate the bridge with its revised lifting system that allow larger boats to enter Welsh Back.
To carry out the work and training safely, the bridge will be closed to all road users between 9.30am and 3.30pm each day from Monday 20 to Friday 31 January 2025.
While Redcliffe Bascule Bridge is closed during the day, road users will need to follow the temporary diversion route across Bristol Bridge – diversion route updated on 8 January. Pedestrians and cyclists can use either Bristol Bridge or Prince Street Bridge during the closure.
If motorists follow the signposted diversion, they will not receive a fine for driving through the Bristol Bridge bus gate.
Redcliffe Bascule Bridge was built in 1942 to link Queen’s Square to the city centre.
It is made up of two fixed spans and a lifting ‘bascule’ span which allows larger boats to enter Welsh Back, a wharf alongside the Floating Harbour.
Bristol City Council carried out a £3 million refurbishment of the bridge from 2022 to 2023. This focused on addressing structural problems and upgrading the mechanical and electrical elements of the bridge.
