Aldermaston Wharf Lifting Bridge refurbishment to close A340

West Berkshire Council will be heading a major refurbishment of a vital transport link in the new year.

The bridge carries the A340 over the Kennet and Avon Canal, but many of its structural, mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems are now worn out or outdated since it was constructed in the 1980s.

Work on the refurbishment will start on January 8 and will affect travel along this route until March 15.

The refurbishment will require removing the entire moving bascule part of the bridge to a steel fabrication yard for structural repairs and repainting — closing the A340 from January 8 until it is reinstalled and made operational again.

The canal will also be closed from January 8 until 14 to allow the removal of the bascule, and then again from February 26 until March 15 to allow the bascule to be reinstalled.

"The upgrade of Aldermaston Wharf Bridge is essential to ensure the bridge remains in a reliable working condition for many years to come,” said councillor Denise Gaines, portfolio holder for highways, housing and sustainable travel.

“We understand the inconvenience caused by the road closure and assure you that we are working diligently to complete the project as quickly as possible."

The council says alternative routes have been identified and will be clearly signposted for vehicles and pedestrians during the closure period.