Work has got underway on a £720,000 overhaul of Seend Wharf Bridge which will see the Kennet & Avon Canal closed to through navigation for almost four months this winter.
The closure, originally scheduled to begin in the New Year, has been brought forward to November to allow work to start as early as possible. The Canal & River Trust explains that this is because “the condition of the bridge has further deteriorated and the works required are critical” – these works include strengthening the bridge arch, road deck and abutments, repairing cracks, and repairing canal walls below water level.
CRT Waterways Manager accepted that closing the canal through the Christmas holiday period would be “annoying for some people”, but said that the “absolutely essential” work couldn’t be put off any longer for safety reasons, and thanked boaters for their patience.
The canal is due to reopen on 11 March. For details of all winter waterway closures see canalrivertrust.org.uk.
