PART of the Tamar Bridge will be closed from tomorrow as essential maintenance work continues.

The northern cantilever will be shut while contractors work to replace the bridge deck waterproofing system and replace the bolts that fix the kerbs in place.

East bound traffic coming from Saltash will be diverted onto the main deck of the bridge, allowing the cantilever to be fully closed for the duration of the next phase of the project. Bridge managers expect the work to last for around 10 weeks.

During the previous work on the southern cantilever, a free shuttle bus service was introduced to enable pedestrians, cyclists and mobility scooter users to cross safely.

The work to be carried out now on the northern cantilever will mean that people will still be able to use the foot and cycle path.

’While we recognise that the closure of the north cantilever will impact on local traffic, the current restrictions on all but essential travel means that traffic levels are expected to remain low which will help minimise any delays,’ said a spokesperson for Tamar Crossings.

’Continuing with the project will also keep local workers employed and provide income for local suppliers, as well as avoiding any potential financial costs from delaying the contract.

’We will continue to closely monitor site progress, the wider coronavirus situation and the latest Government advice.’