Harbour Bridge will be closed to all traffic from 06:00 on Saturday 24 October until 06:00 on Monday 26 October 2026 while engineers replace the bridge’s bearings. Drivers will be diverted via Northbank Bridge. A free temporary ferry will carry pedestrians and cyclists across the harbour every 15 minutes from 07:00 to 21:00.
Plan ahead: the bridge will be closed for the whole weekend, including to people walking and cycling. Allow extra time for any journey that usually crosses it.
Why the bridge needs to close
Bearings are the heavy-duty pads that sit between the bridge deck and its supports. They let the deck move slightly as it warms up and cools down. Our spring inspection found that all eight bearings on the main span are worn and need replacing before winter.
To fit the new bearings, engineers have to lift each section of the deck by a few millimetres with hydraulic jacks, so nothing can cross while the work is under way. The contractor will work around the clock so that the bridge can reopen before the Monday morning rush hour.
We know how much people rely on Harbour Bridge, and we’re sorry for the disruption. Replacing the bearings now, in one planned weekend, protects the bridge for decades and avoids the risk of an emergency closure later.
Rachel Doyle, Head of Highways
Getting around during the closure
| If you’re | What to do |
|---|---|
| Driving | Follow the signed diversion via Northbank Bridge. Allow at least 20 extra minutes, especially on Saturday afternoon. |
| Walking or cycling | Use the free temporary ferry. It runs every 15 minutes from 07:00 to 21:00 on Saturday and Sunday, from landing stages next to each end of the bridge. |
| Using a wheelchair, mobility scooter or pushchair | The ferry has step-free boarding, and the crew will help you on and off. |
| Travelling by bus | Buses that normally cross the bridge will follow the diversion, so expect delays. |
| Travelling by tram | Tram services are not affected. |
What you need to do
- Plan any journey across the harbour before you set off and allow extra time.
- If you’re walking or cycling before 07:00 or after 21:00, cross at Northbank Bridge: the ferry doesn’t run overnight.
- If you’re expecting deliveries or visitors that weekend, tell them about the diversion.
- Check our roadworks and closures page for the latest updates.
Can I take a car or motorbike on the ferry?
No. The ferry is only for people on foot or on bikes, including wheelchair and mobility scooter users and people with pushchairs. All motor vehicles must use the diversion.
What else is happening that weekend?
The Autumn Plant Swap (Saturday, 10:00–13:00) and the free compost weekend at Wren Valley Recycling Centre go ahead as planned. If your route usually uses Harbour Bridge, follow the diversion.
Questions about the closure? Call 01632 960 000 (Monday to Friday, 08:30–17:30) or email hello@larkhaven.example.
