THERE was traffic chaos across Warrington today, on one of the busiest shopping days for Christmas, as the high level Cantilever Bridge was closed for emergency repairs.
Peel Ports took the decision to close the bridge this morning after inspecting the carriageway of the bridge which was recently re-surfaced.
A spokesperson for Warrington Borough Council said: “We were informed by Peel Ports this morning that the Cantilever Bridge would need to be closed to carry out emergency repair works.
“We immediately put signage in place to notify motorists. We have been liaising with Peel Ports and have had officers on site throughout the day. We expect the bridge to reopen at around 5pm.
“We would advise motorists to avoid this area in the short term.”
Traffic chaos was particularly bad on Bridgefoot and surrounding roads, with people late for and missing appointments.
*Maintenance works were continuing on the cantilever bridge until aropund 3.30pm on Friday. Traffic restrictions will be in place between 9.30am to 3.30pm with one lane closed across the bridge. This closure will be managed by temporary traffic lights to ensure that traffic is able to pass the bridge both ways, to minimise any potential disruption.
Total traffic chaos across #Warrington as we approach #RushHour – unless your journey is absolutely essential suggest you stay at home or work late!! pic.twitter.com/aS9c0ZcVhl
— Gary Skentelbery (@GarySkent) December 19, 2019