EVESHAM’S Abbey Bridge will close for ten weeks from Thursday, September 19.

The date of the closure was officially confirmed today after weeks of speculation and a three month delay caused by weather conditions.

The bridge will be completely closed during the ten weeks but pedestrians and cyclists can use a temporary footbridge close to the site and residents are being encouraged to keep Evesham open by continuing to use its services and shops.

During the closure a temporary two-way traffic flow on Mill Street from its junction with Oat Street, with the closure of Mill Bank (at its junction with Common Road) to through traffic will be introduced.

The closure of Mill Bank means the signals at the intersection will operate using minimum of phases – the fewer the phases the better the traffic will flow. The current traffic arrangements on Oat Street and Swan Lane will be retained.

Worcestershire County Council also announced last week a promotion offering half-price travel to and from Evesham town centre will be on offer from Monday, September 2 until the end of 2013.

Coun John Smith OBE, cabinet member for highways and transport and councillor for Evesham North West, said: “The date for the beginning of the 10-week full closure has now been confirmed. It's still a few weeks away, which means there's still time for people to think about making alternative travel arrangements.

“By making changes, not only will they be helping themselves, but also our town as it will help cut congestion.

“The support so far for our traders has been good. Please continue to back our town centre shops during the closure period.”
For more information about options during the closure visit worcestershire.gov.uk/abbeybridge.