Following the identification of additional structural issues and corrosion during restoration work on the Jubilee Bridge in Lowestoft, contractors are now working hard to ensure the scheme is completed in February.
The footbridge, which provides pedestrian access from Belle Vue Park over the Ravine in Lowestoft, was built in 1887 to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria but was forced to close in 2020 for safety reasons.
Key structural areas of the bridge – which were uncovered during the blast cleaning phase of the works and following removal of steel plates installed as part of a previous repair – showed greater corrosion than had been anticipated. This led to the repairs being paused whilst appropriate approvals were put in place.
Subsequently, some further structural issues were encountered which are now being addressed and everyone involved in the scheme is pressing ahead to enable a reopening in the New Year.
Cllr Paul Ashton, East Suffolk Council’s cabinet member for Corporate Services said: “This is an extensive refurbishment programme, with a core commitment to a restoration which retains as much of the original bridge as possible. It is important that we get this absolutely right and that we have a bridge which is not only safe, but a heritage asset for us all to enjoy.”