National Highways is reminding road users that both directions of the A47 in Peterborough will be closed this weekend as the old Longthorpe footbridge is demolished and removed.

From 8pm today (Friday, February 17) until 6am on Monday (February 20) the A47 will be closed in both directions between junctions 15 and 16.

The new, more accessible footbridge, which is located just metres away from the original bridge will also be closed during the same period.

This is for public safety due to the proximity of both bridges and the dangerous work involved with demolishing and removing the old bridge.

The diversion for road users will take eastbound traffic onto Nene Parkway, Fletton Parkway and Frank Perkins Parkway to re-join the A47 at junction 20. Westbound traffic will follow the same diversion but in reverse.

While the new footbridge is closed, pedestrians will have two options:

A clearly signed diversion route will be in place to access the nearby footbridge at Peterborough Hospital

Free bus service will be available with two stops located at:

Longthorpe Primary School, Bradwell Road, PE3 9QW

Bretton Way, near the Copeland Centre, Peterborough, PE3 9YZ

The bus stops will be clearly marked and there will be people on hand to help where assistance is required.

Chris Eglinton, National Highways project manager for the new Longthorpe footbridge, said: “On behalf of the project team we are very grateful for everyone’s patience throughout the construction phase.

“We are now nearing final completion and it’s been great to see the new bridge being used for the first time over this last week, however, there are are some final elements of work to do with the most significant being the removal of the old bridge.

Please bear with us and allow extra time for any nearby journey this weekend – whether that’s on foot or via the A47. We remain grateful for your patience and understanding.”  

To find out more about this project, please visit the dedicated website: National Highways Longthorpe bridge replacement.