Temporary closure of Sidmouth's Alma Bridge next week

Alma Bridge in Sidmouth is scheduled to close for part of next week while further investigative work is carried out on the structure.

The footbridge was damaged during the severe flooding in July and as a precautionary safety measure, a temporary crossing was installed across the bridge.

The deterioration of the mudstone rock foundations beneath the western pier, which were exposed by the floods, were raised as a concern by the County Council's bridge engineers. The structure has been continually monitored and further investigations will be carried out during the closure from Tuesday (22nd January) to Friday (25th January).

County Council surveys have revealed that a major rebuild is likely as both piers have suffered significant scour and the concrete decking is beyond reasonable repair.

During the closure, engineers will look into the extent of work which may be necessary. A borehole will be drilled through the west abutment to determine its condition and the depth of its foundations.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, and local member for Sidmouth and Sidford, said: “These latest investigations are needed to examine the condition of the abutments and whether they could be built upon, or what could possibly be salvaged from the bridge in providing a future crossing of the Sid.

“Although no budget has been identified, the costs could be substantial so it’s vital that we know what progress is being made by the District Council and Environment Agency to protect Pennington Point before any funding is committed to this project.”

During the closure a suitable diversion will be clearly marked for pedestrians.