Sheppey Crossing Repairs Expected to Last Months Following Bridge Joint Failure

National Highways has confirmed that repairs to the A249 Sheppey Crossing in Kent are expected to take at least three months following the discovery of a defective bridge joint that forced emergency restrictions on the route last week.

The defect was identified during a routine inspection on Friday morning, leading to the closure of sections of the crossing and causing major disruption across the Isle of Sheppey and surrounding areas.

The closure triggered severe congestion throughout the day, with traffic backing up for hours in high temperatures. Local roads, including through Iwade, became heavily gridlocked as diverted vehicles attempted to bypass restrictions.

Reports also emerged of school transport delays, with some journeys back to the island reportedly taking several hours.

National Highways says specialist teams have been working continuously since the defect was discovered to assess the condition of the damaged bridge joint and determine how repairs can be carried out safely on the structure.

According to the organisation, the damaged component forms part of the bridge’s expansion joint system — a critical element that allows the structure to safely expand, contract, and move slightly under traffic loading and changing temperatures.

Because of the complexity of the bridge structure, National Highways says a replacement joint will need to be specially designed and manufactured specifically for the crossing, significantly extending the repair timeline.

One lane on the Sheppey-bound carriageway reopened over the weekend, but lane restrictions remain in place while engineers continue to assess options for temporary repairs and long-term replacement works.

A 50mph speed restriction and a 7.5-tonne weight limit also remain in force on the crossing.

National Highways said it recognised the importance of the route and the disruption caused to local residents, businesses, and road users, adding that safety remains the priority while repair solutions are developed.

Images circulating online appear to show part of the damaged expansion joint lifting from the carriageway surface — highlighting the scale of the structural issue facing engineers.

Expansion joints are a vital part of bridge infrastructure, particularly on heavily used structures exposed to constant traffic movement and changing environmental conditions. Failure of these components can create significant safety risks and requires highly specialised repair work.

The incident also underlines the growing maintenance pressures facing ageing transport infrastructure across the UK.

The Sheppey Crossing, which opened in 2006, carries substantial daily traffic volumes and forms a critical transport link between the Isle of Sheppey and mainland Kent. Any prolonged disruption on the route can have major impacts on local communities, freight movement, emergency access, and regional traffic flows.

Local councillors have also raised concerns about reports of vehicles exceeding the temporary weight restrictions continuing to use the bridge, warning that non-compliance could risk further damage or additional closures if enforcement is not strengthened.

National Highways says drivers should continue to allow additional time for journeys while restrictions remain in place, with further updates expected as repair planning progresses.