A full programme of maintenance work is set to begin on Nottingham's iconic Trent Bridge next week.

The actual bridge, not to be mistaken with the world-famous cricket ground, will be subject to full maintenance painting over this spring and summer.

Work will involve painting all steel and cast-iron parts of the bridge, replacement of a few damaged cast iron parapet components and some stonework repairs to the piers and abutments. The work will include over 11,000m2 of steelwork being painted, and 120m2 of gold leafing applied to the bridge fascia.

Despite the size of the £1.1 million works, motorists are advised that the impact will be minimal. Arrangements will be made with the Canal and River Trust to close a section of the Trent to river traffic for a period.

Nottingham City Council's Portfolio Holder for Transport, Cllr Adele Williams, said: "With its nearby cricket ground namesake known worldwide, Trent Bridge is an iconic gateway to the city which together with the County Council we are committed to maintaining and keeping looking its best. This re-painting will help to protect and preserve the bridge while freshening it up for many years to come.

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"With the on-going traffic restrictions in place at Clifton Bridge, I want to reassure people that these works will have minimal impact on the road over the bridge. People affected by the Clifton Bridge roadworks will appreciate the impact on the road network that can happen should a problem arise with such a crucial structure, and the need for vital maintenance work like this to be carried out to keep the structure in tip-top condition."

The works will be undertaken by Cleveland Bridge UK Ltd, one of the world's most experienced and best-known steel bridge building and rehabilitation specialists.

Jim Mawson, Head of Operational Delivery at Cleveland Bridge UK, commented: "We are very proud to be awarded this prestigious refurbishment project for one of the UK's most iconic city centre bridges. 

"Working in close collaboration with the city and county councils, our rehabilitation team will apply its extensive experience to extend the lifespan of Trent Bridge, including having the honour of applying the highly-recognisable gold leaf that greets commuters and visitors to the city as they cross the river."

Work on Trent Bridge is expected to be completed by mid-September.

(CM/JG)