Bridge repairs to begin as reopening date announced
BBCRepairs to a landmark bridge are set to begin months after the structure's sudden closure.
Damaged parts of Pero's Bridge at Bristol's harbourside will be removed next week using specialist equipment after the pedestrian route was shut in August when a lifting mechanism failed.
Bristol City Council aims for the bridge to reopen in March 2027. However this could change if repair works take longer than expected.
Councillor Andrew Brown, chair of the economy and skills policy committee, previously said: "It will be fully refurbished with significant upgrades made to how it operates, improving the bridge's reliability and functionality."
The bridge has remained closed since it failed a test lift, leaving it stuck in a raised position.
However, concerns about the structure's condition had emerged months before the incident.
A report commissioned by the council in December 2025 found significant rusting, particularly on the western section by Millennium Square.
The report also highlighted deteriorating sealant between the wooden decking planks, allowing moisture to reach the steelwork.
A trial lift in the same month failed because the bearings had seized.
Engineers warned of seized bearings, corrosion, flooding of mechanical equipment and the possibility of the lifting section becoming stuck or misaligned, which is ultimately what happened in August.
Damaged parts of the bridge will be taken to Albion Dry Dock next week where repair works will be carried out.
Councillor Brown previously said: "We understand that the closure of Pero's Bridge is an inconvenience for people visiting and travelling through the area and that some local businesses are affected.
"We appreciate everyone's patience while we take the necessary steps to progress the works needed."
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