WINNINGTON bridge will be closed overnight on Saturday to allow emergency works to be carried out on the ageing structure.

The closure, for both motorists and pedestrians, will be in place between 10pm on Saturday (July 30) and 6am on Sunday (July 31).

With Soot Hill still closed after a landslip late last year, the eight-hour closure is another blow to those travelling in and out of town.

A spokesman for Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “We have been in discussions with Canal and River Trust about the need to carry out essential works to the swinging mechanism on Winnington Swing Bridge.  

“During the works it will be necessary for us to close the bridge to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

“We fully appreciate that there are a lot of roadworks in the area at the moment especially with Soot Hill being closed.

“There are times when emergency jobs have to be undertaken irrespective of other programmed works.

“Following these discussions, these works will take place overnight on Saturday, July 30 between 10pm to 6am on Sunday, July 31 to help keep the disruption to a minimum. 

“As part of the closure process, all the Emergency Services will be informed.

“A signed diversion route will be in operation for those requiring access to the opposite side of the bridge.

“The road closure is confined to the bridge only and the approach roads will remain open for local access for residents and businesses.

“Advanced information signs have been erected on site.”