UPDATED: A 20mph speed restriction and a 18 tonne weight restriction has been applied to Wootton Bridge this afternoon (Wednesday) following the revelation last week that the bridge has ‘serious structural weaknesses’.
Island Roads have confirmed that between New Road, Wootton and Firestone Copse Road, Kitehill, there is a 20mph speed restriction now in place for all vehicles, whilst vehicles over 18 tonne in weight are prohibited from using the bridge.
Large vehicles weighing over 18 tonnes will now need to divert via Ryde, Sandown, Lake and Arreton or, where possible, The Downs from Ashey to Downend.
The restrictions will be in place for the foreseeable future in the interests of road safety.
Island Echo have approached Southern Vectis for confirmation as to whether or not their Route 9 buses will be affected.
It is still unknown when work on the bridge will begin and if a full closure will be required. Should the bridge need to be closed to all traffic, regular motorists will face a 6.6 mile diversion through Havenstreet and Binstead, with other flows of traffic using Ashey and The Downs.
UPDATE @ 18:10 – Island Roads have further advised that the restrictions will not come into place until the Isle of Wight Council have signed emergency notices and that all organisations and communities have been consulted. Temporary diversion signage also needs to be installed.
Island Roads have apologised that this was not clear in their initial communication to the media and organisations, however say that they will provide further updates as to when the arrangements will come into force.
UPDATE THURSDAY @ 09:41 – Southern Vectis have confirmed to Island Echo that their bus services will continue to operate over Wootton Bridge and that there are no immediate plans to divert services.
