THE reopening of a lane closed due to bridge repairs at Ipswich Road in Colchester has been delayed, it has been revealed.
Vital repairs have been underway to Cowdray Bridge, which runs over the railway line, with damage being identified during the controversial £6.5 million roadworks scheme in the area.
During the long-running roadworks to the Ipswich Road and Harwich Road roundabouts a crack was discovered in the base of one of the ornamental bridge columns, known as pilasters.
These pilasters are instantly recognisable to all Colchester residents.
Initial repairs were made at the time, allowing one lane at the roundabout to remain open, however, further works were needed.
One lane at Ipswich Road was closed in June to allow contractors to complete more comprehensive repairs to the bridge.
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Essex Highways said it hoped to remove traffic restrictions at the end of July, however, has now announced this has been delayed until the week commencing August 9.
A spokesperson, said: “Engineers are making good progress with the bridge repairs.
"Next steps include putting a waterproofing coat on the concrete repairs and allowing that to set, before filling in where we had to dig out the road to access lower sections of the bridge.
"Following this, a top surface will be laid on the second running lane so that this can be opened to traffic.
"This is estimated to be completed during the week commencing 9 August.
"Crews can then finish reinstatement work to the pavement inside the single lane closure.
"We will briefly revert to one lane open at the end of August to complete the surfacing and paint the white lines before opening all lanes permanently."
The long-running Ipswich Road roadworks scheme, which is now complete, saw the two double roundabouts in Ipswich Road and Harwich Road converted into single roundabouts.
The two and-a-half year project started in September 2018 and caused enduring delays for motorists whilst businesses were also hit as drivers avoided the area.
The spokesman added: "Thank you to all those drivers and other road users who have taken great care around this difficult area.
"We ask for people’s continued patience as we finish the last vital works in the area.”
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