Cllr Mike Bell: “I’m sorry” as Winterstoke Road Bridge completion delayed until 2028
The replacement of Winterstoke Road bridge is now expected to open in early 2028. This revised timeline reflects an extension beyond the previous target completion date of summer 2027.
During periods of high rail temperatures over the summer, piling beside the railway had to stop because the work could affect the stability of the track.
North Somerset Council and Octavius are reviewing the remaining work to see whether the reopening date can be brought forward.
A spokesperson for North Somerset Council said:
“As steel heats up, it expands, but because railway tracks are restrained, this expansion creates pressure within the track. If the rail becomes too hot, particularly where nearby construction has disturbed the ground or support to the track, there is a risk that the track could become unstable.
Network Rail has predetermined safety limits. As rail temperatures increase, safety restrictions are introduced on construction activities and, where necessary, railway operations to ensure the track remains safe. These are preventative safety measures designed to prevent the railway from ever reaching an unsafe condition.
The safety of site workers and rail passengers is vital in delivery of the Winterstoke Road Bridge. As a result of delays incurred around the railway, it is now expected that the completion of the replacement bridge will be at the start of 2028. However, North Somerset Council and Octavius are exploring all available options to bring the date forward.”
Winterstoke Road Bridge is a key route in Weston-super-Mare and the MOD is covering its replacement cost.
The original World War Two-era bridge had significant structural issues and was demolished over Christmas 2025. Without replacement, the bridge would have been closed to all traffic on a permanent basis to ensure public safety. The new bridge will maintain the route for the next 120 years.
Some work can only take place during scheduled closures of the railway, agreed with Network Rail. This means some work is restricted to late nights and weekends.
Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of North Somerset Council, said: “I’m sorry that people will have to wait longer for this route to reopen. We know the closure is affecting journeys, and residents deserve a clear explanation of the delay and what happens next.
“We are reviewing the remaining construction timetable with our contractor, Octavius, to identify whether any work can be brought forward or rephased. Our priority is to get the route open to vehicles as early as possible.
“We will publish a further update as soon as we can, including the next construction milestones and any changes to the expected completion date.”
Matt Whale, Framework Manager at Octavius, said:
“Over the summer, prolonged periods of exceptionally high rail temperatures resulted in strict railway safety controls for activities within the track support zone.
“A key element of the replacement of Winterstoke Bridge involves piling operations adjacent to the operational railway. During these periods of extreme heat, activities could not safely proceed due to the potential impact on track stability. These are industry-wide safety requirements designed to protect passengers, freight services and the railway network.
“Despite these unprecedented conditions, the project team worked proactively with Network Rail and others throughout the summer to identify alternative working methods, re-sequence activities and maximise progress whenever conditions allowed.
“Whilst these challenges have affected the current programme, they have also demonstrated the strength of the partnership delivering the scheme.
Through close collaboration, innovation and a relentless focus on safety, the team has continued to move the project forward and remains committed to delivering a high-quality asset that will provide long-term benefits for the local community.”
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