Further repairs needed on Shaldon Bridge

Further repair work is due to commence on Shaldon Bridge following underwater inspections revealed new erosion.

Devon County Council has recently commissioned a team of divers to conduct a thorough inspection of the Victorian bridge, focusing on previous underwater repairs and identifying any potential issues. The inspection was prompted by the discovery of defects in 2022, which necessitated urgent repair work on four concrete columns supporting the structure.

Emergency repairs were completed a year ago, addressing the immediate concerns. However, a recent detailed inspection concentrated on examining the underside and piles of the Grade II listed bridge situated within the primary channel of the river.

During the inspection, engineers also took the opportunity to remove loose concrete from the underside of the main beams to enhance safety measures.

The underwater dive inspection confirmed the success of the repairs carried out on the bridge columns. However, it revealed new erosion of the riverbed around a different column, necessitating further repair work. A spokesperson for the authority emphasized the importance of maintaining the structure's safety and ensuring the well-being of the traveling public, stating that underwater repairs similar to the previous successful ones will be conducted to protect the affected column.

Preparations are underway for the repair work, with materials expected to be delivered in the coming weeks. The repairs will be performed from beneath the bridge, requiring temporary traffic lights to be installed on the bridge for a few hours on two separate occasions to facilitate underwater concrete pouring.