Map showing location of works area
UPDATE:
The weight restriction on the A272 has been lifted.
As you will be aware, a weight restriction was imposed on the bridge due to concerns about its stability and strength. The weight restriction was a precautionary measure whilst we undertook further investigations and any necessary repairs to the bridge.
Our original intention was to strengthen or “prop” the bridge from its underside. However, following extensive site investigations, Balfour Beatty engineers now believe the original structure to be a more complex design, with the records from the bridge’s original construction in the 1950s not being wholly accurate. Balfour Beatty have now concluded that the structure does not need additional strengthening and that the weight restriction can be removed.
The works needed to maintain this bridge will be de-scaled significantly and focus on protecting the sides of the bridges itself and to discourage parking on the bridge. This will mean installing bollards to both protect the structure. These works are minimal compared to our original intention. These works, and the deck waterproofing works carried out last year mean that we can safely lift the weight restriction, and the road can be used by all traffic.
A structure of this age will need ongoing maintenance and we will continue to carry out the second phase of originally planned maintenance. Further information on these works will be provided.
We appreciate the patience of all residents and road users whilst we undertook these vital investigations and repairs, our records have been updated accordingly so that any future works can be based on accurate information.
Previous Information:
We will be returning to Gold Bridge to carry out further structural investigations. The results of this will determine whether the temporary weight restriction can be removed.
During the last year, East Sussex Highways have been working with specialist designers on ways to restore the bridge. Regretably, due to the complex nature of this project, the design has taken longer to progress than first anticipated.
An option has been developed to strengthen the bridge by installing support beams underneath. Subject to Environmental Agency and Natural England permits, this option is nearing the point where we can begin works. However, during a detailed design our research has uncovered information that may remove the need for the support beams and allow us to carry out alternative repairs.
What does the work involve?
We will be carrying out targeted structural investigations to confirm key information within the bridges makeup.
This survey involves Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scans of the bridge and supporting structure.
When do they start?
Work will take place from Wednesday 17 July 2024 to Friday 19 July 2024 between 7pm and 6am.
We will inform you of any changes to the dates or times via advanced warning signs on site.
We are very sorry for the delay in informing you of these works.
How will this impact highway users?
Access to the road will be restricted for residents for the duration of works. Traffic will be diverted via A272, A275, A22, A272 & vice-versa.
If you need vehicle access, please discuss this with the team on site. Please bear in mind there will be delays whilst the area is made safe and your vehicle is escorted by site marshals. Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times.
Information for residents and businesses
Parking: If required, we will put out ‘no parking’ signs and cones on the site to advise where parking is restricted. Please avoid parking in these locations as it will delay our works.
Weather: All of these works are subject to favourable weather conditions, for example heavy rain may affect the progress of the works.
We appreciate your patience whilst this complicated project has been developed but we hope that we are now reaching a point where we will be able to define the way forward so that the weight restriction is removed.
Permit Reference: EA007HM-0052-B-03
Please let us know how we did by leaving feedback. Please note you will be redirected to the East Sussex County Council consultation website.