Harbour Estates Manager Eric Dougall has updated Friends of Bathurst Basin and Cabot Cruising Club on the Bathurst Bridge restoration. A contractor for the work has finally been appointed and work will shortly be underway. The latest press release states that ‘Bristol City Council is closing Bathurst Swing Bridge for a full refurbishment from Monday 7 April 2025.’ The restoration of the swing ridge will cost in the region of £1.3 million, funded by the UK Government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, secured by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.
Much of the support equipment and materials will be stored on the road itself in one lane, separated by security fencing. In addition, three containers will be located on the quayside close to the bridge to provide a small canteen, office and toilet facilities. The area will be fenced off but adequate access space will be provided for boat owners to the Cruising Club’s red access ramp to the pontoons. In addition two car spaces will be allocated to the contractors in the parking area beside the John Sebastian.
Bathurst Bridge is one of a number being renovated over or close to the Avon New Cut. Details are on the Council’s website.