Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge to undergo multi-million pound refurbishment

The Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol is set to undergo a two-year, multi-million pound refurbishment to secure its future.  

Major work is being carried out from April to protect the bridge’s historic wrought iron chains, a large number of which are 180-years-old. 

Awarded to engineering firm Taziker, the contract is expected to keep the ironwork in "top condition" for at least another 20 to 25 years.

Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust, the charity that acts as a custodian for the iconic landmark, said the project has been entirely funded through the collection of bridge tolls.   

Bridgemaster Trish Johnson said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime project that will safeguard important original features designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel as well as updating the bridge’s illuminations to ensure we are reaching the highest standards for sustainability whilst minimising light pollution."

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The work will see a protective paint system used across the chains and parapet girder latticework and stanchions which run along the outer side of the bridge's footways. 

As the existing lighting needs to be removed to enable the bridge structure to be inspected and repainted, the Trust will also install a “cutting-edge, environmentally-friendly and sustainable” lighting system. 

The bridge’s chain links were manufactured for Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s Hungerford Footbridge in London which opened in 1845. 

When the footbridge was demolished to make way for the Charing Cross Railway Bridge, the engineer John Hawkshaw recycled the parts to complete Bristol’s Suspension Bridge.