Drypool Bridge
Drypool Bridge reopened to two-way traffic and pedestrians on Friday 24 July 2026.
However, to maintain safety while work continues on-site, traffic management is currently in place, with the bridge open to two-way traffic.
Works are progressing well on the east side of the bridge, with preparations underway for concrete pours to the northern footway, completion of movement joint installations, and waterproofing and surfacing works to the steel lifting span and Phase 3 area. Reconstruction of the locking gear chamber is also continuing.
Below deck on the east side, installation of lower-level scaffolding within the tidal zone remains ongoing, enabling defect inspections and any required concrete repairs and cathodic protection works to be carried out.
Works will continue on the bridge until winter 2026. No further long-term closures of the bridge are expected as part of this programme of works.
This scheme is not only about restoring the bridge’s structural integrity, but also about ensuring it remains a safe and reliable transport link for residents, commuters, and visitors.
Works completed so far
Since the start of the scheme major progress has been made, including -
- silt cleared to allow for inspections and cathodic protection works
- defective concrete and rebar have been removed and repaired. Protecting the concrete on the river-facing side of the bridge to prevent future damage
- several concrete columns have been removed via wire saw cutting and then reconstructed, alongside general concrete repairs
- transverse beams removed following concrete removal using high-pressure water jets ready for replacement
- cleaning and repainting key structural parts to improve durability
- removing the old road surfacing and installed new waterproofing and surfacing on the west approach to the bridge
- resurfacing the road on the east side to provide a smoother, safer finish
- Over 1,500 steel dowels installed and strength tested
Mitigation measures
The temporary Bus Gate, which was introduced on Queen’s Dock Avenue to support bus services during the closure, has been suspended, with the associated signage and road markings removed.
The AI traffic signals, introduced to alleviate congestion, have been returned to their original configuration.
Background
Drypool Bridge is a single-leaf bascule Scherzer rolling bridge. It originally opened in 1961, replacing the 1889 swing bridge.
Following a routine inspection in April 2024, several load-bearing columns supporting Drypool Bridge on Clarence Street were found to be in a significant state of deterioration.
In response, we have been working closely with Esh Construction Limited and Mason Clark Associates to deliver a comprehensive design, repair, and strengthening scheme.
The contractors have been on-site since Monday 7 July 2025.
Stay up to date
For the latest traffic updates, follow Travel Hull on X or Facebook. Alternatively, visit Live Traffic and Travel – Travel Hull.
For weekly traffic and travel updates, visit Hull weekly roadworks update – Hull CC News