RCT Council has provided a progress update for the significant ongoing scheme to repair and refurbish Imperial Bridge in Porth – with the work now progressing towards its conclusion later this autumn.
The structure, which carries a section of Pontypridd Road, has required two large phases of repair work to rectify damage and install future protections. Phase One took place in 2022, completing significant steelwork and parapet repairs, paintwork, and the replacement of the southern-side bridge bearings.
Phase Two started in April 2023, to replace the northern-side bridge bearings, carry out remedial works to a wingwall, install waterproofing, and undertake final resurfacing. The scheme is being funded by an allocation for Highways Structures in the 2023/24 Highways and Transportation Capital Programme.
Latest progress update for the works
Contractor Centregreat Ltd has made important progress over recent months, including the replacement of all the northern-side bridge bearings which had seized.
The latest works on site have removed the road surfacing (pictured) to re-waterproof the bridge deck. There will need to be repairs to the concrete infill, which is weather dependent, before the waterproofing can be completed. This has resulted in additional time being added to the overall programme. The Council will provide further updates in due course to advise about further progress and the arrangements for completing the scheme.
Please be reminded that, until the scheme is completed, the bridge section of Pontypridd Road remains closed for motorists only – while local bus route diversions (affecting Services 132, 124 and 131), and the Sunday shuttle bus service (between Llwyncelyn Road and Porth Town Centre) will continue.
The Council would like to thank residents once again for their patience and cooperation as work progresses towards its conclusion in the weeks ahead.
