City council unveils £42m plan to repair bridges and infrastructure
NORTH BRIDGE: Needs strengthening
EXCLUSIVE
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Hull City Council could be about to embark upon one of the most comprehensive bridge repair programmes in its history in a five-year scheme costing an estimated £42m.
Subject to cabinet approval, the infrastructure works would encompass repairs to seven road bridges, two flyovers, three footbridges, the west bank River Hull walkway, as well as work on Victoria Pier, King William III statue and the fountains in Park Avenue and Westbourne Avenue.
The scheme would also see the permanent closure of Boothferry Road footbridge and the installation of a replica “Banksy” artwork on Scott Street Bridge. The original, which appeared on the bridge in 2018, is currently in storage after being restored but is intended for a site in Trinity Market.
VICTORIA PIER: In ‘very poor condition’ and needs to be made safe
The proposals, detailed in a report to the council’s cabinet later this month, mark a fresh approach from the authority in seeking to deliver a widescale capital spending, maintenance and inspections programme under a single strategic plan rather than as piecemeal individual projects.
The council would seek additional funding from Government for the scheme as the report notes works will be “costly and significantly above the bridges annual allocation received from the DfT” [Department for Transport].
Speaking exclusively to The Hull Story yesterday, Councillor Mike Ross, city council leader, said: “This sets out the approach that’s going to be taken by the authority to both maintain and improve the bridges network. This is a city built on water, it’s got a big river going through it, we know how important bridges are in this city and they have to be able to cope with the demands that the city puts on them.”
BOOTHFERRY ROAD FOOTBRIDGE: Set for closure
The sites include:
Hessle Road flyover
Sutton Road Bridge
Sutton Road flyover
Priory Drive footbridge
Victoria Pier
River Hull walkway
North Bridge
Scott Street Bridge
Boothferry Road footbridge
Wilmington Bridge
Ennerdale Bridge
Soneferry Bridge
Millennium footbridge
Sculcoates Bridge (Chapman Street)
Scale Lane Bridge
The works, which would be scheduled for completion by May 2030, will require some road closures and cause further disruption for motorists already facing issues around planned and emergency road works. These include diversions and restrictions caused by the £355m National Highways upgrade of the A63 at Castle Street, which is now scheduled to open in spring 2026, a year later than planned.
Coun Ross said: “I would ask people to bear with us while the work is taking place because the end result is going to be what we all want to see happen. And so stick with us as we go through it and we’ll get to a better place on the other side. It will be done in a planned manner to minimise disruption as much as possible.”
ENNERDALE BRIDGE: Bearings need replacing
The city council leader said it was notable the city and region had missed out on a share of £15bn of Government investment in transport schemes outside London announced yesterday.
“There are Government funding announcements taking place today and we need to be part of that mix, making sure we are getting investment here,” he said. “Undoubtedly, one of the best ways of making sure the Government can come and fund the plan is that there’s a plan in place.”
He added: “By developing a comprehensive and proactive programme we will not only maintain and enhance the city’s infrastructure, but we will also preserve Hull’s cultural heritage and ensure safe and reliable transport links.
WILMINGTON BRIDGE: Decay to timber fenders ‘exacerbated by errant vessels colliding with the structure’
“Detailed inspections have highlighted the need for repairs and upgrades to these structures which are needed to maintain their use well into the future, and to ensure all motorists and members of the travelling public remain safe as they travel in and around our city.
“However, this investment is not just about maintaining infrastructure and preserving history; it’s also about supporting Hull’s economy, helping to provide equal access to opportunities and resources as well as supporting education, training, employment and cultural events.”
SUTTON ROAD BRIDGE: Needs strengthening
Gillian Osgerby, interim assistant director, major projects and infrastructure, said: “Ultimately, it’s about keeping the city moving.
“I know the works in themselves can affect traffic flows but without the bridges the city would come to a halt so this maritime location means we do need to make this investment to make sure that our infrastructure continues to function.”
The report will be considered by cabinet on June 23.