THE Abbey Bridge rebuilding project is three weeks behind schedule and the bridge will not be open to traffic until Friday, December 20, at the earliest.

The significant delay on the major route into the town was officially announced yesterday by Worcestershire County Council to the dismay of traders, who will face a tough run-up to Christmas as the bridge will remain closed during the busiest shopping period of the year.

Seasonal weather and general problems with delivering the work on time have been blamed for the setback in the closure period, which contractors Hochtief originally planned to last for 10 weeks.

Councillor John Smith, who represents Evesham and is the county member for highways and transport, said he was disappointed with the delay but he hoped that people would continue to support the town.

“The news from Hochtief came as a real surprise as we understood work had been progressing well,” he said. “I am very disappointed. This extension to the closure period clearly falls outside the agreement we will be in discussions with them regarding the contractual issues this raises at an appropriate time.

“Getting this link open as quickly as is possible is of paramount importance. Our main focus now has to be how we can help the town and its traders.”

Peter Blake, head of integrated transport, said: “They have had some seasonal weather problems but that was to be expected. Throughout the project we knew the issues with the River Avon.

It impacts on their work. If we have six inches of snow or a flood, that risk always exists but that has not changed. Our focus is getting the bridge open.”

An alternative traffic route is open through the town and this will remain in place.

Other measures to encourage people to visit Evesham, including subsidised bus routes and 20p parking for three hours, will also remain and it is hoped the cheaper charges may be introduced in more car parks.

The temporary pedestrian bridge will also stay open allowing pedestrian and cycle access.
Coun Smith said: “We'll be doing what we can to help. Finally, and most
importantly, I'd like to say thank you to everyone in the community for supporting our town during the closure period. This news is a setback but I'm sure the support shown so far for our businesses will continue. Please keep backing Evesham.”
For the latest information on the project visit worcestershire.gov.uk/abbeybridge.