Network Rail's repairs to Kingsferry Bridge this summer have been rescheduled to late July.

The 1950s structure will close to motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and maritime traffic from 22.00 Friday 7 to 05.00 Monday 10 June, 22.00 Friday 28 June to 05.00 Sunday 7 July, 22.00 Friday 12 to 05.00 Monday 15 July and 22.00 Friday 19 to 05.00 Sunday 28 July - the replanned week.

Last trains will depart the island around midnight on Fridays when the bridge closes. First trains will run from approximately 0543 on the days when the bridge reopens.

The repairs are needed after routine inspections revealed that the condition of some of the 40 steel ropes, which support the bridge when it lifts for maritime traffic, has deteriorated.

-- Advertisement --

The ropes were last replaced in 1995 and are reaching the end of their life. While regular testing ensures bridge users are kept safe, if the rope condition worsens it could result in an unplanned closure which would cause significant disruption to bridge users until repairs can be made.

David Davidson, Network Rail’s Kent route director, said: "We've taken the difficult decision to reschedule the work that was due to take place from 16 to 22 June to late July.

"Rescheduling the work means that students can get to their exams without being disrupted by the Kingsferry Bridge closure. It also means the Chase the Sun bike ride, involving thousands of people, can go ahead and participants and support staff can get to and from the island safely via rail.

"While changing the dates of one of the closure weeks removes some challenges, we know that the other planned closures of Kingsferry Bridge, combined with the impact of existing roadworks in the area, still mean longer journeys for people coming to and from Sheppey. We’re working closely with Southeastern, National Highways, Kent County Council, Swale Borough Council and emergency services to manage the impact on local people and services."