SOMERSET NEWS: Nothing will stop Bridgwater Carnival!

BRIDGWATER Carnival will not be disrupted – despite intensive restoration works on the town’s historic bridge being extended.

A major overhaul to strengthen and repair the near-on 150-year-old Town Bridge over the River Parrett and return it to its former glory has been well underway since August.

Somerset County Council hoped work would be finished before tens of thousands of people descend on the town for Bridgwater Carnival on Saturday, November 1, 2014.

But the increasing scale and complexity of this £370k renovation has meant the Town Bridge team is now on track to complete the project by Friday, November 21, 2014.

The Bridgwater Carnival Committee and police have told the county council they are content that ongoing bridgework will not disrupt their Carnival plans.

Pedestrians will still be able to access the Carnival route, which does not pass over Town Bridge, via the structure, and extra security will be in place on the night.

PHOTO - TOP: With the Bridgwater-based Carnival clubs still with their entries under wraps, the Ilminster-based Harlequin CC are looking forward to showing off their pirate-inspired cart Tortuga at Bridgwater Carnival on November 1, 2014.

PHOTO - RIGHT: Somerset County Council's highways and transport spokesman, Cllr Harvey Siggs.

The council’s highways and transport spokesman, Cllr Harvey Siggs, said: “From the sheer spectacular of Carnival to the squibbing, we all know that tradition is very much the beating heart of Bridgwater.

“That’s why I’m sure the town will continue supporting us in doing the best job we can to restore Bridgwater’s historic bridge to its former glory.

“While we are working to finish this project as swiftly as possible, our priority has to be giving this structure the care and attention it deserves.”

The structure’s steelwork has been corroded and weakened by years of contact with the River Parrett’s salt-and-freshwater mix, plus three years of exceptionally bad weather.

The rejuvenated bridge will be more resilient than ever before, thanks to modern paintwork and steel detailing to bolster its water resistance.

Engineers have however voiced concerns after reports from Town Bridge security, contracted by the Council, of problems with late-night revellers.

Cllr Siggs added: “The people of Bridgwater have once again been outstanding in their support for this project.

“It is with a heavy heart I have heard that evening security on-site have routinely had to deal with those worse for the effects of drink near to the structure, and had to intervene with groups causing disruption in the area.

“While the bridgeworks have not been directly affected, it is disappointing that individuals could put themselves and others at risk, as well as the timely completion of the project.

“I urge everyone to act responsibly around these and all other construction works.”

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