Motorists face diversions as Clifton Bridge closes for maintenance

Drivers in Bristol are forced to take an alternative route this week because the Clifton Suspension Bridge is closed for maintenance.

From Monday 24 July to Friday 28 July the bridge is closed to vehicles and cyclists between 09:30 and 16:00.

During this time work will be done to improve access to the chains for engineers and some paint will be removed to trial different ways of painting the bridge in the future. Engineers will also carry out inspections.

A diversion route will be signed using Bridge Valley Road, Brunel Way and A369 Rownham Hill.

During these closures pedestrians will still be able to use the bridge. Cyclists can dismount and walk across but may have difficulty because only one narrow footway will be open.

Bridge Master, Trish Johnson, said the work is necessary and engineers will be "utilising this closure as efficiently as possible".