Bridge demolition at Barnetts Wood, Tonbridge
Work will get underway on Friday 14 November to demolish an accident-damaged footbridge over the A21 at Barnetts Wood near Tonbridge in Kent.
The work is being carried out following a traffic collision with the bridge in 2013. While it was made safe at the time for traffic, it cannot be used by pedestrians and so it is necessary to remove the current footbridge before replacing it in the future.
The work will take place between 10pm on Friday 14 November and 5am on Monday 17 November, weather permitting. In order to maintain the safety of the travelling public and road crews, the laybys in both directions between Morleys interchange and Vauxhall interchange will be closed from 10pm on Friday 14 November. This will be followed by a full carriageway closure from 8pm on Saturday 15 November through to 5am on Monday 17 November. The original bridge design and the nature of the demolition works mean that it is not possible to take the bridge down in sections and hence it is necessary to close both carriageways.
Kevin Bown, Highways Agency Asset Manager said:
Safety is a top priority for the Highways Agency. Following the road traffic collision last year we identified issues with the bridge, which while not compromising traffic safety in any way, meant that pedestrians could not access the crossing. Removing the bridge and replacing it in the future is the safest option for pedestrians and road users alike.
During the full carriageway closures, road users will follow clearly signed diversion routes. London-bound road users wishing to join the A21 from the A26 will follow a fully signed diversion route via the A26, A2014, A26, A227 and the B245. Road users wishing to continue on the A21 will be diverted off at Vauxhall Interchange to the A26, A227 and the B245. Coastbound road users will follow the same diversion in the opposite direction.
General enquiries
Members of the public should contact the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000.
Media enquiries
Journalists should contact the Highways Agency press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.