Waterloo Bridge in Christchurch to undergo much needed repairs (From Thisisdorset)

Waterloo Bridge in Christchurch to undergo much needed repairs

5:00pm Friday 7th September 2012 in Latest By Katie Clark

WORK to repair a rapidly deteriorating bridge in Christchurch is likely to take place in two weeks.

Repairs to Waterloo Bridge in Christchurch town centre will take place on September 16 and 17.

Although the work has only been scheduled for two days, county council engineers need to investigate the extent of the problem, meaning they could require more time.

The road surface of the bridge, which is one of the main routes into Christchurch, has had temporary repairs to several large potholes over the past few weeks while a permanent solution is dicussed and action is taken on the matter.

Cyclists using the bridge have reported having to position their bikes in the centre of the road to avoid the deep potholes and extensive damage which runs alongside the kerb.

Cllr Nick Geary, portfolio holder for transportation at Christ-church said: “I’ve been monitoring the roads constantly.

“I have and been on to Dorset County Council about the deterioration of town bridge where you can see the cables through the surface. They are keeping a close eye on the situation.

“I think they are planning to do some quick patching on Waterloo Bridge then on September 16 and 17 – subject to weather conditions – inspect the waterproof membrane and then hopefully resurface.”

Cllr Geary said it is understood the road surface has not stuck properly to the waterproof membrane, causing the surface to slip.

Resident Les Woodhouse said: “I’ve had to hog the centre of the road on my bike to stop an impatient double-decker bus and an ambulance recently because it is impossible to pull over and get off once I’m on the bridge.

“Something needs to be done to make the surface safe. Town Bridge is suffering the same way now as well. It’s dangerous.”

John Burridge, chief engineer for bridge management at Dorset County Council confirmed the work would take place on September 16 and 17.

He said: “The road will be closed from 4pm on Sunday and will remain closed on Monday.