Grosvenor Bridge, Chester

Grosvenor Bridge was designed by architect Thomas Harrison and opened in 1832. The Grade 1 listed structure was the largest single span stone arch bridge in the world when it opened. It carries the A483 over the River Dee in Chester.

Background

Unfortunately, the Bridge has been hit by vehicles twice in a six-month period - in March 2022 and then again in October 2022. In both cases, vehicles heading out of Chester failed to negotiate the left-hand bend onto the bridge and collided head on with the parapet. These impacts caused masonry blocks to fall on the footpath and cycleway below. Fortunately there were no injuries.

Latest update

We are looking at ways to both strengthen the bridge to prevent falling masonry and reduce the likelihood of an impact in the first place, though options are limited by the road layout and the Grade 1 Listed status of the bridge.

Design work is progressing well and is almost complete. Our consultants have employed a CARE conservation engineer (Conservation Accreditation Register of Engineers) to produce the information that will go to the Council's Planning service and Conservation officer to comply with Listed Building consent. It is hoped reports will be submitted to our planners in the next few weeks.

Rebuilding of the bridge parapet is now being planned, using new blocks of masonry as the previous blocks were smashed.

Both reconstruction and strengthening works will now take place at the same time, after Listing Building consent is in place. When a date is known for this, it will appear on this page.

Reconstruction costs will be recovered from the drivers' insurance policies but strengthening costs will be borne by the Council.