Relief for road users as Drypool Bridge set to reopen
REOPENING: Drypool Bridge
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Drypool Bridge is set to reopen on Friday afternoon, ending eight weeks of disruption for road users.
The structure, which has been closed for repairs since May 27, will reopen to vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists at 3.30pm.
Although work will continue until winter with traffic management in place, the bridge will be open to two-way traffic.
Alfred Gelder Street on the west side of the bridge will open at the same time following the completion of essential highway improvments.
The temporary bus gate on Queen’s Dock Avenue, imposed to support bus travel during the bridge work, has been suspended and signage removed. AI traffic signals, introduced to alleviate congestion, will also be returned to their original configuration, Hull City Council said.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at the council, said: “I am pleased that this latest phase of work has come to an end on time. We would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and understanding during this full closure period.
“We recognise the disruption that closing such a key route has caused, but these repairs are essential to safeguard the long-term future of the bridge.
“The reopening of Drypool Bridge marks a significant milestone in this project and allows people to once again use this vital crossing while further works continue under traffic management.”
The council, in partnership with local contractors Esh Construction and designers Mason Clark Associates, have been working to fix the bridge since routine inspections in 2024 revealed the need for essential repairs.
Work has included concrete repairs and the repainting of key structural elements that could not be safely undertaken while the bridge remained in use.
Paul Allen, senior project manager at Esh Construction, said: “The full bridge closure has provided a vital window for our team to complete a significant package of repairs safely and efficiently, reducing the need for a longer period of disruption.
“Reopening the bridge under traffic management allows us to take advantage of the favourable weather conditions and bring forward the next phase of repairs, while restoring this important route for the travelling public.”
Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates, said: “Drypool Bridge is a vital part of Hull’s transport network and an important piece of the city’s heritage, with the repairs completed during the closure having addressed key structural issues that will help extend the service life of the bridge and improve its long-term resilience.
“The successful reopening of the bridge is the result of close collaboration between Hull City Council, Mason Clark Associates and Esh Construction. While further works will continue under traffic management, road users can be reassured that these essential improvements are helping to secure the future of this important crossing for many years to come.”