To ensure the safety of the public crossing the Silver Jubilee Bridge, Halton Borough Council has taken the decision to restrict access at certain times to the footpath/cycleway, while the bridge is closed for refurbishment. This means on weekdays a free of charge shuttle bus service will take pedestrians, cyclists (and their bikes) and people using mobility scooters across the river during times when the footpath/cycleway is not available.
The unique characteristics of the bridge and its environment have meant that as the scheme for carrying out the refurbishment works has been developed, it has been necessary to adapt original plans, particularly in relation to the design of the scaffolding that is required for painting and other works to take place. As a consequence, it would not be safe for the public to cross the bridge while work at heights is taking place. This means that it will be necessary to restrict access whilst these scaffolding works are ongoing.
Temporary shuttle bus stop in Runcorn
The pick up and drop off point in Runcorn is on High Street by Waterloo Bridge.
The service will continue to operate Monday to Friday, picking up/dropping off every 15 minutes between 7.30am and 4pm.
Access to the Silver Jubliee Bridge footpath is via the Runcorn Approach Viaduct (adjacent to Doctors Bridge)
If you need any more information please contact the NTT on 0800 1953 173 or email ntt@halton.gov.uk
The Widnes bus stop is located at the end of Waterloo Road near to the junction with West Bank Street.
Access to the Silver Jubilee Bridge footpath in Widnes is from Irwell Street (via Mersey Road).
Outside of these hours, and at weekends, the footpath/cycleway will be open as normal. We anticipate that the Silver Jubilee Bridge will reopen fully to pedestrians and cyclists at the end of November 2019.
Cyclists & pedestrians are reminded that they are prohibited from the Mersey Gateway Bridge:
A Mersey Gateway Project spokesperson said: “The River Mersey (Mersey Gateway Bridge) Order 2011 prohibits pedestrians and cyclists from using the Mersey Gateway bridge on safety grounds as it is a major 60mph six-lane route, and byelaws regulating the use and operation of the new crossing have been passed to this effect. The Silver Jubilee Bridge provides a much shorter and direct route between the two town centres and will be modified for this local use with designated cycle and pedestrian routes. “We are making it clear across the media and our extensive communications channels that cyclists and pedestrians are prohibited from the new Mersey Gateway Bridge and we will continue to relay this message. Any cyclist or pedestrian found using the Mersey Gateway bridge will be in contravention of the byelaws and become liable for prosecution. We want everybody to enjoy the magnificent new bridge safely and urge all users to please pay close attention to the new road signs and layout, follow the speed limits and drive safely.”
