Sections of the scaffolding and covering are being removed from Corporation Bridge as parts of the restoration works come to an end. The coverings have concealed the bridge for over a year while the extensive project got underway.
The project started in February 2023. It was originally expected to cost £5m and should have reopened last winter, but is now expected to come to a close next summer after unexpected damage was discovered. Now, the results of the work are finally being seen by the public.
As first reported by Gi Grimsby News last month, parts of the scaffolding and covers are now being removed, revealing its new-look paint job.
According to the latest statement from North East Lincolnshire Council, the sheeting was sheeting was put in place to protect the river Freshney and Alexandra Dock from debris and pollution produced by the works. Scaffolding has already been removed from two sections, with one more to follow in the coming weeks.
A spokesperson for the authority called the decision an “important milestone in the progress of the work to the bridge,” but added it is “important to note that the work is not complete.”
Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport at North East Lincolnshire Council, explained:
“This is a significant milestone. For the first time in over a year, people will start to see sections of the structure. They will be able to see some of the completed, painted spans and that will give a flavour of what the rest of the bridge will look like when it is completed.
“However, there is still much work to do, as we explained earlier this month.
“We’re still looking at the lifting span and awaiting final design options, and there are still paint and steel work repairs to be carried out to spans 5 & 6 of the bridge, but this is good to see.”
