Cookham Bridge maintenance works could last for long periods each day

Maintenance works on Cookham Bridge starting this month could see works for up to 14 hours a day.

People who regularly use the bridge have been reminded to plan their journeys during the 20-week closure.

翻新工程将有助于扩展生活e of the Grade II listed structure and includes bearing replacement, re-waterproofing, resurfacing and joint replacement.

Works are scheduled to begin on Monday, October 16 and will be closed to motor vehicles but open to pedestrians. Cyclists will need to dismount before crossing the bridge.

Councillor Geoff Hill, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “Work to Cookham Bridge is due to get underway shortly to carry out essential maintenance to this historic bridge.

“While I understand that a project of this scale will bring some temporary disruption for road users, residents and businesses in the area, we will be striving to keep this to a minimum.

“We have been working hard to provide as much information as possible both locally, and to surrounding communities, in a clear and timely manner in advance of any work taking place.

“Routine inspections have identified the need for essential maintenance to this historic bridge. If left unattended, extensive and longer-term strengthening works would be required in future.

“By making this investment now, we can ensure the bridge is fit for purpose for everyone to use for decades to come and avoid more disruptive work in future years.

“This project will extend the life of the bridge, maintaining a key route and connection for residents, businesses, as well as visitors to our borough.

“If you use Cookham Bridge regularly, on your journey to and from work for example, or usually catch the bus from the village, please do take the time to familiarise yourself with all the information we have available in advance of the closure so that you can plan your upcoming journeys.”

Working hours will be from 7am to 9pm and, when required, up to seven days a week with advance notice.

Access to properties or businesses within the closure area will be maintained at all times. Advance road signage is in place to help motorists plan their journeys.

The diversion route will follow the A4094 south from Cookham, west along the A4 Bath Road, north on the A404, and then along the A4155 Marlow Road, with this route in reverse for traffic on the northern side of the bridge.

Work will pause over the Christmas period, between December 22 and January 2 but will remain closed to motor vehicles due to the complexity of the works.

Buses will be unable to serve Cookham and Cookham Rise while Cookham Bridge is closed.

Train services are running as usual from Cookham railway station to Maidenhead, Furze Platt and Bourne End.

For High Wycombe, Wooburn Green and Loudwater the council advises passengers to travel to Bourne End, by train from Cookham, where they can pick up their regular bus from outside the railway station to continue their journey.

For those with reduced mobility or a disability, contact People to Places on 01628 587925 to learn about alternative door-to-door dial-a-ride services.

For more information, visit the council’s website at www.rbwm.gov.uk/cookhambridge, and for a temporary bus timetable, visitwww.arrivabus.co.uk/latest-news/cookham-bridge-closure