DRIVERS are bracing themselves for more motoring misery, with the start of maintenance work on Acton Swing Bridge.

For the next seven days the bridge, which carries the A49 over the Weaver Navigation, will be closed with diversion routes operating via the M56, M6 and A556.

The work is expected to take up to six months - but the bridge will only be completely closed for some of that time.

David Bogle, from the Highways Agency which is funding the £1million project, said: "Without this work, the bridge cannot be guaranteed to operate effectively in the future - with the potential for major delays to motorists and river users if the bridge ever jammed open.

"Road closures are unavoidable because the repair to the mechanical equipment cannot be carried out with traffic on the bridge.

"The work has been carefully planned to keep disruption to road users to a minimum. The contract includes financial incentives for the work to be completed as soon as possible and to minimise road closures."

When the road is not closed there will only be one lane open with temporary traffic lights.

And there will be two further closures of around a week. But a pedestrian footway will be open at all times.

Clear diversion signs will be in place.

Delays are expected and everyone is strongly advised to allow extra time for their journey.

If you have any problems ring the Highways Agency information line on 0345 504030.

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