Drypool Bridge is set for a further eight-week full closure. Drivers also faced an over two-month closure in Autumn of last year.
In 2024 a routine inspection of the major city centre bridge revealed that significant work was needed to prevent the structure’s failure. Following a closure between September and November 2025, the bridge was reopened with traffic management in place.
Hull City Council has confirmed the bridge will close again for “around eight weeks” from Wednesday, May 27. The first closure involved the removal of defective concrete, essential column reconstruction and general concrete repairs. Works during the second full closure will focus on:
- Repairing and protecting the concrete on the river-facing side of the bridge to prevent future damage
- Cleaning and repainting key structural parts to improve durability
- Removing the old road surfacing and installing new waterproofing and surfacing on the west approach to the bridge
- Resurfacing the road on the east side to provide a smoother, safer finish
The council has confirmed that after the closure work will continue on Drypool Bridge until the Winter. The bridge will be open to traffic in both directions under traffic management.
To ensure the continued reliability of bus services during Drypool Bridge’s closure, the operating area of the city centre Bus Gate will be amended. The Bus Gate will be in operation from Guildhall Road to Dock Street, east bound only, and will prohibit vehicles from entering other than those authorised, including buses, cycles, motorcycles, taxis, emergency vehicles and hackney carriages.
General traffic will need to divert around the area via Wilberforce Drive / George Street. The council will issue warning notices only in the first instance, with potential to enforce. The Bus Gate will be in operation 24/7.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, said:
“When the council started this important programme of strengthening and repair works, to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of Drypool Bridge, we always planned for a second full closure.
“To ensure residents had plenty of notice, we announced last year our intention to close the bridge in late May 2026, and we are now able to confirm specific dates. We understand that another full closure will cause disruption, which is why we’ve worked hard to keep the bridge open whenever possible and only closing it when absolutely necessary.
“We urge everyone to work with us and be part of the solution. Please plan ahead, consider alternative travel options and bear with us while we carry out these vital improvements. This isn’t just about repairs – it’s about protecting the city centre economy, preserving our heritage and investing in Hull’s future.”
By: Andrew Spence, LDRS
