Works on famous Witham bridge planned for next year

A BRIDGE which was crowned National Highways’ longest-running roadworks will at last be planned for repairs.

Woodend Bridge in Witham has been a running joke for residents after a set of temporary traffic lights were installed ten years ago.

Since it was damaged in 2015, the bridge has been subject to restrictions which saw the traffic lights installed in preparation for repairs.

It’s been revealed that more than half a million pounds has since been spent on traffic management while no work was started on upgrading the bridge.

Woodend Bridge, which was ranked Witham’s number one attraction on Tripadvisor, was due to be entirely rebuilt as part of the A12 Widening Scheme.

However, that scheme was scrapped by the government in July.

As a result, National Highways have been looking at alternative repair options.

A spokesperson confirmed on Friday that the process of designing the bridge beam repairs is underway and National Highways is working to install that next year.

A National Highways spokesperson said: “Repairing the integral structure of this bridge is complex and much of our focus has been finalising a design that causes the least disruption to drivers who rely on the A12 that runs underneath.

“We acknowledge the duration that traffic management has been in place for the safety of those using the bridge and apologise for any inconvenience.”

Witham MP Priti Patel said the need for repairs to be undertaken is urgent.

She said: “We have all be frustrated by the restrictions and delays at Woodend Bridge and the widening of the A12 would have enabled a modern new bridge and junction to be installed.