Network Rail is urging people to plan ahead as it prepares to close the Kingsferry Bridge for two weekends and two eight-day periods for emergency repairs this summer.
The iconic 1950s bridge, which connects the Isle of Sheppey to mainland Kent over the Swale, will be closed to pedestrians, cyclists, rail, road and maritime traffic on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June, Saturday 15 to Saturday 22 June (8 days), Saturday 29 to Saturday 6 July (8 days), and Saturday 13 to Sunday 14 July.
Urgent work is required after routine inspections revealed that the condition of some of the 40 steel ropes, which support the bridge when it lifts for maritime traffic, has deteriorated. While Network Rail’s regular testing ensures bridge users are kept safe, if the ropes’ condition worsens it could result in an unplanned closure and cause significant disruption to bridge users.
To reduce the risk of a sudden closure and take advantage of favourable summer weather and tides, all 40 ropes will be replaced between June and July this year. By doing the work in summer the risk of Sheppey Crossing, the alternative route to the island, closing due to high winds is also significantly reduced.
Staggering the repairs not only reduces the impact on local communities, allowing them to plan around the closures, but also on vital maritime traffic which contributes billions of pounds to the national economy.
David Davidson, Network Rail’s Kent route director, said: “Kingsferry Bridge is a vital link for the people of Sheppey and essential for the movement of billions of pounds worth of goods by shipping each year. We know the closure is going to be very inconvenient and have explored a wide range of options for replacing the ropes, but this is the least disruptive for people in Sheppey and shipping.
“We simply can’t delay the work any longer, due to the risk of a failure closing the bridge without warning. That scenario would mean that local people and businesses wouldn’t have the option of planning ahead and the bridge would likely be closed for longer than it would for a carefully planned closure.
“We know that roadworks in the local area are already extending journeys for people and will work closely with National Highways and Kent County Council to minimise disruption and keep people moving. We’ll also work closely with Southeastern to keep rail passengers informed of their alternatives including bus replacement services.”
Scott Brightwell, Southeastern’s operations and safety director said: “We want to look after our customers when the bridge is closed, and we are providing a regular bus service between Sheerness, Queenborough and Swale stations. Full details will be published shortly, so please check before you travel. I also want to say thank you in advance for bearing with us while these essential repairs are carried out.”