Hull City Council has announced the details for the next phase of works on Drypool Bridge. The bridge will be fully closed to all vehicles and pedestrians for eight weeks from mid-late May 2026, as part of the major repair and strengthening programme.
The council, in partnership with local contractors Esh Construction and designers Mason Clark Associates, have been working to fix the bridge since routine inspections in 2024 revealed the need for essential repairs.
In line with the planned programme of work, an initial full closure took place between Monday 15th September and Thursday 27th November, to allow the bridge to remain open during the busy Christmas and New Year period.
During this closure, work progressed well with the removal of defective concrete, essential column reconstruction, and general concrete repairs.
The council has now confirmed that the second phase of closure will be needed for eight weeks from mid-late May 2026 to safely complete the next stage of the repair programme.
This essential work forms part of a wider investment in Hull’s transport infrastructure, aimed at futureproofing key routes and preserving the city’s heritage.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure, said: “Drypool Bridge has served Hull for generations and these repairs will make sure it continues to be safe and reliable for decades to come.
“The council said when this work began that there would be the need for a further closure, so I am pleased we are able to give residents plenty of notice about when this will take place. We understand that another full closure will cause disruption, which is why we’ve worked hard to keep the bridge open whenever possible. By only closing it when absolutely necessary, and ensuring it’s open for the festive season, we’re doing everything we can to reduce the impact.
“This isn’t just about repairs – it’s about protecting the city centre economy, preserving our heritage and investing in Hull’s future.”
Paul Allen, Senior Project Manager at Esh Construction, said: “During the next closure, we will carry out essential works on the bridge’s west span and the east approach. This includes cathodic protection, further concrete repairs, waterproofing, and resurfacing.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding of the public as we continue to deliver this important repair and strengthening programme and protect this vital route in Hull city centre.”
Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates, said: “During the previous closure, we made significant progress on the visible structural elements of Drypool Bridge, addressing key repairs and strengthening works.
“However, some of the most critical areas requiring attention are only accessible when the bridge is fully closed to road traffic.
“The upcoming closure will allow Esh to safely undertake these essential works in locations that are otherwise hidden from view, ensuring the long-term safety and resilience of this important crossing for Hull.”
Subject to any unforeseen issues, this will be the last planned full closure of the bridge.
Following this closure works will continue on the bridge until November 2026 under traffic management, with the bridge open to traffic in both directions.
Until May 2026, the bridge remains open to pedestrians and traffic, with lanes narrowed.
Emergency closure
Drypool Bridge will also be closed overnight on Sunday 21st December to allow for emergency carriageway repairs.
Unfortunately, due to the recent cold weather, a section of surfacing to the carriageway on the bridge has deteriorated.
To maintain safety and prevent further deterioration, a temporary repair must be carried out imminently.
To ensure the safety of the contractors working on-site, the bridge will be closed to all traffic from 6pm on Sunday 21st December until 6am Monday 22nd December – weather dependent. Pedestrian access will be maintained.
Cllr Ieronimo added: “Safety is, and always will be, our top priority. These emergency works are essential to keep the bridge safe for all users and to prevent further damage.
“We know these works will cause disruption, but we have been working closely with Esh Construction and our specialist contractors to minimise this as much as possible. So, I’m pleased these works have been scheduled to take place overnight, to reduce the impact on traffic.
“Thank you, in advance, to residents, businesses, and road users for your continued patience and support.”
The temporary repair will be completed by specialist contractor, Midland Industrial Flooring Limited, on behalf of the council.
A full replacement of the carriageway will take place later in the repair programme .
To keep up to date with the Drypool Programme, visit Drypool Bridge | Programmes – Bridges | Hull