Martinhoe Bridge, located near the Hunters Inn on Exmoor, has re-opened following the completion of a complex scheme to replace it.
The original bridge, which was built in 1952, was closed for safety reasons in July 2022 after routine inspections by Devon County Council found serious structural defects. Issues with the internal steel tensioning system of the bridge, which is integral to its structure, meant it could no longer be used safely.
A temporary 24-metre steel bridge was installed over the original structure to maintain the vital link until work could start on a replacement.
Work to install the new structure started in May last year and has taken around 10 months to complete.
The existing structure had to be demolished and the new bridge was then constructed on the same alignment.
The bridge comprises seven concrete beams supporting an in situ concrete deck, with the bridge abutments supported by vertical reinforced concrete columns (piles) founded in the underlying rock.
A number of technical challenges had to be overcome to deliver the project, including working within a constrained river environment with restrictions over the timing of when work could be carried out in the water.
The remote location and limited site access further added complications, with the Trentishoe masonry arch bridge having to be strengthened to enable a 90-tonne crane to be brought to site.
Councillor Dan Thomas, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “This is a vital route for local communities, businesses, and tourism, so I’ve no doubt people will be pleased that this new and improved bridge is now in place and open. Logistically there have been some complex issues to deal with so thank you to everyone for their patience and co-operation throughout this project.”
Councillor Andrea Davis, County Councillor for Combe Martin Rural, said: “The unexpected closure and replacing of this bridge has taken far longer than any of us expected. The local community and the neighbouring parishes have been very patient and supportive. The result of the disruption is we now have a safe, functioning bridge for many decades to come. Everyone working on this scheme has been very helpful and considerate to the issues it has caused, thank you.”
