ENGINEERS carrying out bridge works in Great Yeldham have pushed back the completion date by several months.

Essential upgrades to White Hart Bridge, in Poole Street, started in September last year.

It was estimated the work would take four months, however, the scheme has seen significant delays, with the project now not expected to finish until the summer of this year.

Great Yeldham Parish Council provided an update on its social media page, from councillor Peter Schwier.

It said: “We are writing to draw your attention to the latest website update on the White Hart Bridge, Great Yeldham webpage.

“The first phase of the bridge deck replacement works at White Hart Bridge are progressing, the east side of the concrete deck has been poured and work to install the vehicle parapet over the bridge and safety barriers are currently taking place.

“We are also in in the process of carrying out works to widen the carriageway in preparation for the next phase.

“Phase two will commence once the carriageway widening is complete.

“The second phase involves the reconstruction of the west side of the bridge deck.

"During the second phase traffic will be directed over the east side of the bridge under temporary traffic lights.

“Unfortunately, we have experienced some delays on site due to bad weather and unforeseen issues arising. We anticipate works will be completed by summer 2023. Site signage will be updated.”

Phase three will be the final phase of repairs and will see reinstatement works to the footpath and installation of parapets and safety barriers.

This will include a lane closure with temporary traffic lights and pedestrian diversion in place.

The work comes after Essex Highways said the bridge was generally in a “poor condition” with “corrosion and steel delaminating in areas” and repairs also required to its brickwork and parapets. 

The bridge deck was also in a weakened condition and needed replacing. The new deck will be comprised of a reinforced concrete slab.