Drypool Bridge to fully close again for eight weeks

CLOSURE: Drypool Bridge is undergoing essential repairs

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

Hull’s Drypool Bridge will fully close to all vehicles and pedestrians again later this month for around eight weeks, the city council has announced.

The bridge will close from Wednesday, May 27 as part of an ongoing major repair and strengthening programme.  

Hull City Council, in partnership with contractors Esh Construction and designers Mason Clark Associates, has been working to fix the bridge since routine inspections in 2024 revealed the need for essential repairs.  

In line with the planned programme of work, an initial full closure took place between Monday, September 15 and Thursday, November 27 last year, allowing the bridge to reopen ahead of the busy Christmas and New Year period.  

During that closure, work progressed with the removal of defective concrete, essential column reconstruction and general concrete repairs.   

Works during the second full closure will focus on: 

• Repairing and protecting the concrete on the river-facing side of the bridge to prevent future damage 

• Cleaning and repainting key structural parts to improve durability 

• Removing the old road surfacing and installing new waterproofing and surfacing on the west approach to the bridge 

• Resurfacing the road on the east side to provide a smoother, safer finish.

At the same time, bearing and double column replacement works will continue, as well as cathodic protection of the east fixed span, and the west fixed span fascia beam will be re-painted.  

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at the council, said: “When the council started this important programme of strengthening and repair works to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of Drypool Bridge, we always planned for a second full closure.  

“To ensure residents had plenty of notice, we announced last year our intention to close the bridge in late May 2026, and we are now able to confirm specific dates.  

“We understand that another full closure will cause disruption, which is why we’ve worked hard to keep the bridge open whenever possible and only closing it when absolutely necessary. 

REPAIR AND STENGTHENING: Works on Drypool Bridge continue

“We urge everyone to work with us and be part of the solution. Please plan ahead, consider alternative travel options and bear with us while we carry out these vital improvements. 

“This isn’t just about repairs – it’s about protecting the city centre economy, preserving our heritage and investing in Hull’s future.”  

Paul Allen, senior project manager at Esh Construction, said: “The closure will allow us to safely access and repair key components beneath the bridge and on the bridge deck, and at times the bridge must remain raised to facilitate some of the repair works.  

“We are committed to delivering these improvements efficiently and appreciate the public’s patience and understanding while we carry out this phase of work.” 

Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates, added: “The initial closure allowed us to make good progress on a number of visible repairs and strengthening works across the bridge. However, some of the most critical elements of the structure can only be safely accessed when the bridge is fully closed to traffic and only once earlier stages of the programme have been successfully completed. 

“This next phase of works will enable Esh to address these areas properly, ensuring essential repairs are completed efficiently and to a high standard. Carrying out this work now is vital to safeguarding the long‑term safety, resilience and continued operation of Drypool Bridge as a key route through the city.” 

Following this closure, works will continue on the bridge until this winter under traffic management, with the bridge open to traffic in both directions. 

The council also revealed it is temporarily amending the operating area of the city centre bus gate during this latest closure.

The bus gate will be in operation from Guildhall Road to Dock Street, east bound only, and will prohibit vehicles from entering other than those authorised, including buses, cycles, motorcycles, taxis, emergency vehicles and hackney carriages.  

General traffic will need to divert around the area via Wilberforce Drive / George Street and vice versa, depending on direction of travel.  

The council said it will issue warning notices only in the first instance, with potential to enforce fines. 

The bus gate will be in operation 24/7.