Closure of A488 for work on New Invention Bridge

New Invention Bridge on the A488 will be closed from 3 August to 18 September [2026] for essential maintenance by Shropshire Council, in partnership with Kier and WSP,

Due to the narrow nature of the A488 and to ensure the work can be completed safely and efficiently, a full road closure will be in place for the duration of the work, from Five Turnings to Rockhill.

A fully signed diversion route will be provided, including additional heavy goods vehicle (HGV) signage through the Clun Village area, using roads of a similar standard to the closed route.

During the early stages of the scheme, gatemen will be present at the closure points to assist with access arrangements.

Access for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists across the bridge will not be available during Phase 1 of the work.

Access for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists across the bridge will be reinstated during Phase 2.

Access to properties and frontages will be maintained up to the bridge closure point throughout the works.

Phase 1: 3 to 18 August

Phase 1 will involve the removal of the carriageway surfacing and footpath from the bridge deck. The bridge deck slab will then be assessed, with any necessary concrete repairs undertaken, followed by waterproofing works. Once complete, the carriageway and footpaths will be reinstated.

Due to the nature of the work, no vehicular traffic will be permitted to cross the bridge during this phase.

Phase 2: 18 August to 3 September

Phase 2 will involve work beneath the bridge, including bunding and diversion of the watercourse to facilitate a sequence of concrete repairs to the bridge soffit.

Due to the required curing periods and sequencing of the repairs, no vehicular traffic will be permitted to cross the bridge during this phase.

Updates will continue to be provided as the scheme progresses. Advanced warning signs, including Variable Message Signs (VMS), have been installed at strategic locations to inform road users of the upcoming work and diversion routes.

All planned roadworks are subject to change. Any amendments will be displayed on the advanced warning signs and published on the One.Network website.

We thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and understanding while these essential bridge maintenance works are undertaken.