A BUSY bridge over the A338 Spur Road will close next week for nearly three weeks. 

Sopley Bridge, along the Avon Causeway in Hurn, will undergo inspection, upgrade and repair work from Monday, March 4. 

Funded by central government, the work will see a new waterproofing membrane installed on the bridge and the replacement of defective expansion joints and concrete. 

A detailed inspection of its post-tensioned cables to ensure its structurally sound will also be carried out. 

These important measures will not only enhance its safety and durability but prevent water damage which would require more frequent repairs and incur further maintenance costs in the future. 

Work is expected to be completed on Friday, March 22 and will inevitably bring significant disruption to the 9,000 vehicles which cross it every day. 

All traffic will be diverted via Ringwood Road, Stoney Lane, Christchurch bypass, Fairmile Road, Hurn Road, Christchurch Road and the Avon Causeway, with clear signage in place along all the affected areas. 

Access to properties and businesses will be maintained during the closure, but anyone wishing to cross the A338 will need to follow the temporary diversions in place during this period. 

Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for environment and energy, said: “This essential maintenance work is key to improving the infrastructure of Sopley Bridge for years to come. 

“With around 9,000 vehicles using the bridge daily and bad weather taking its toll, it’s vital we regularly assess its safety, functionality and resilience, which benefits all those who use it. 

“We understand the frustrations road closures and diversions can cause and ask everyone to bear with us as we seek to complete this work in full and on time. We also advise motorists to leave a bit more time for any planned journeys over the next couple of weeks. 

“We are aware this work comes at a time when there are several other large highway improvement projects ongoing, but any disruption in the short term comes with significant benefits in the long run.” 

In January, BCP Council closed Avon Causeway for safety because of flooding between Matchams Lane and Ringwood Road.