Clun Bridge daytime closures set for essential parapet repairs

Clun Bridge will undergo a series of daytime closures in late May 2026 to facilitate critical structural maintenance. Shropshire Council has confirmed that the historic crossing will be inaccessible to vehicular traffic between 9:30 am and 4:00 pm daily to allow engineers to safely execute masonry repairs.

Maintenance schedule and daily closure windows

The project is scheduled to last four days, focusing on the bridge’s upstream section. To minimize peak-time travel disruption for commuters and local businesses, the work has been timed to avoid the early morning and late afternoon rush hours.

Outside of these specific hours, the bridge will remain open to all traffic. However, motorists are advised to plan for potential delays during the transition periods when the site is being secured or reopened.

Structural repairs to the bridge parapet

The maintenance program involves the systematic dismantling and rebuilding of a section of the upstream left parapet. Over time, environmental factors and traffic vibration can lead to the displacement of masonry. Engineers will focus on resetting displaced copings—the protective top stones of the wall—and performing general pointing work to ensure the long-term integrity of the structure.

Shropshire Council’s contractor, Kier, will execute the physical works. Technical oversight and supervision throughout the four-day period will be provided by WSP. These repairs are categorized as essential preventative maintenance to avoid more extensive and intrusive structural failures in the future.

Pedestrian access and diversion routes

While the bridge will be closed to cars, vans, and heavy goods vehicles, provisions have been made to maintain connectivity for those on foot. Pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will be permitted to cross the bridge throughout the duration of the works. Access to all frontages and properties leading up to the bridge closure point will also be maintained for residents and visitors.

For those driving, a signed diversion route will be in operation during the 9:30 am to 4:00 pm window. Shropshire Council has begun installing advance notice signs at the bridge to alert regular users. Additionally, information letters are being delivered to local properties in Clun to ensure residents are fully informed of the access changes. Real-time updates regarding the diversion and any potential schedule adjustments will be hosted on the one.network platform.

Source: Shropshire Council Newsroom