A bridge in the centre of York is set to be closed for two months next year to undergo ‘urgent' repair works due to ‘significant corrosion and deterioration' on the cast iron structure, the council has announced.
The £1.9m project planned for Lendal Bridge, a Grade II listed Victorian structure that crosses the River Ouse between Station Road and Museum Street, will prohibit all vehicles for eight weeks starting in April 2026. It will remain open to pedestrians.
While the work takes place, the City of York Council said it also plans to resurface the carriageway and footpaths and re-waterproof the structure so that it can protect the bridge's long-term load carrying capacity, eliminate frequent emergency repairs and minimise the risk of more costly future interventions.
According to a report published by the council, the bridge is facing ‘significant corrosion and deterioration, including life-expired surfacing and failed waterproofing.'
After undertaking ‘extensive' studies, the council concluded that closure to vehicle and cycle traffic while maintaining pedestrian access with 24/7 working would be the ‘most efficient' way to undertake the repairs as it would minimise disruption and ensure ‘the highest quality finish'.
Further non-essential works could also see all the bridge's metalwork repainted while the maintenance takes place.
Kate Ravilious, the council's executive member for transport, said: ‘Lendal Bridge is a very well-used route at the heart of our city centre and is in need of essential repairs. Getting Lendal Bridge fixed will safeguard this important link for decades to come.'
