Landmark bridge to close for refurbishment

The world famous Clifton Suspension Bridge will be closed for the weekend for refurbishment works.

The closure will allow for inspections, painting and electrical work on the bridge that was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

It will be shut to traffic and cyclists from 19:00 GMT on Friday 22 November until 07:00 on Monday 25 November, but pedestrians can still use it.

There will be a diversion route using Bridge Valley Road, Brunel Way and the A369 Rownham Hill. Traffic using the route will be exempt from Clean Air Zone charges.

The work is part of a two-year project to protect the historic wrought iron chains of the Grade I listed bridge from corrosion.

A protective paint is used to preserve them and there are also plans to update the lighting system that illuminates the bridge.

A large number of the bridge’s chain links are 180 years old, according to the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust.

During the closure, cyclists can dismount and walk their bikes across, but as only a single narrow footway will be open, the trust is asking them to avoid the bridge if possible.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.