A bridge in Exeter will close tomorrow (Monday, January 13) for essential refurbishment works. The Iron Bridge will be shut for five months as structural repairs, drainage improvements, replacement of expansion joints, waterproofing of the bridge deck, resurfacing and upgrades to signs and lighting takes place.
The closure of the 190-year-old bridge will be in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The closure will extend from the junction with Dinham Road to Paul Street while the work is carried out.
During the work, the south footway will be widened to two meters to improve pedestrian access and support local businesses. A segregated cycle lane will also be provided for cyclists travelling towards the city centre.
Meanwhile, public permit parking spaces on Lower North Street, located under Iron Bridge, will be closed. Permit holders will need to find alternative parking locations during this time.
However, access to the City Gate Hotel, local businesses and properties will be maintained at all times. People have been urged to follow signage and be aware that arrangements may change during the works.
Devon Alert, the official Devon County Council Highways alerts page, said in a post on X: “The Iron Bridge in Exeter will be closed for refurbishment works from 13th January to June 2025. For more information on these works, please use this link.”
Diversion routes
(Image: Devon County Council)
Devon County Council said: “Iron Bridge will be closed to all users for the duration of the works. Access to the City Gate Hotel and adjacent businesses will be maintained at all times.
“A full traffic diversion will be in place via South Street, B3212 Western Way, Paris Street, New North Road, B3183 Hele Road, and St Davids Hill. More information on the diversion route can be found via one.network.
“Pedestrians are advised to use Lower North Street, which runs alongside Iron Bridge. Shown in blue below. Alternative step-free access is available via Queen Street. Shown in green.
“Cyclists will be diverted via Paul Street, Queen Street, New North Road, B312 Hele Road, St Davids Hill, and Iron Bridge, and vice versa. Shown in Magenta below.”