Bridge uproar sparks change

Last week, The Standard reported that considerable delays and traffic chaos caused by the work had led to many town centre businesses fearing that the work would ‘kill’ trade in the run-up to Christmas.

Now, responding to concerns, the authorities have decided to carry out the bridge refurbishment work overnight starting this week.

Principal Engineer Richard Waters said: “The traffic flow on the A631 had improved significantly after we changed the traffic signals to two way earlier in the week.”

“This work is now taking place at night and we can only apologise to those living nearby. It is something we try and avoid wherever possible.”

He continued: “It does mean the work can be carried out more quickly, over four weeks, rather than five because we can work for longer periods, however we’ll still endeavour to complete it as quickly as we can.”

Richard added: “It will make a real difference once the bridge is restored to its former glory and we’re sure people living in the town will approve of its fresh new appearance.”

Refurbishments involve replacing corroded railings on the bridge, while officials say that as much work is being carried out off site as possible.

From this week, the work will start after rush hour each evening at 7.30pm from Monday to Friday, and end in good time before people need to travel to work the following morning.

Work will also be suspended during the Lincoln Christmas Market from 1st - 4th December, so that people travelling via Gainsborough won’t be affected.