Work to refurbish Ross Bridge in Penzance began on 5th January 2026. The project by Cornwall Council was originally expected to take 13 weeks.
Cornwall Council provided this update on Friday 23 January:
“Good progress continues on the bridge refurbishment works.
“All of the existing concrete bridge deck panels have now been removed. These materials have been sent off for recycling and will be crushed to produce recycled aggregates for use in other construction projects across Cornwall. The bridge has since been swung back into the open position to allow access to the concrete counterweight, removal of which is ongoing and will continue over the weekend, and into next week.
“Next week will also see the decommissioning of the bridge’s hydraulic system and the removal of the support bogies. Once these elements have been removed, the bridge can be lifted onto the barge, which is currently moored in the channel between the dry dock and the causeway.
“Subject to suitable weather and sea conditions, the bridge lift is planned for Monday 2nd February. The barge will then transport the bridge to A&P Falmouth where the refurbishment works will take place. In parallel, construction of the new bridge deck, handrails, and footway is already underway at A&P, progressing well, and will be completed well in advance of the bridge’s return to Penzance.
“When the bridge returns, works to install the new deck, footway and handrails will begin immediately. To minimise disruption and meet programme milestones, the site team will be working seven days a week, with the aim of completing the works ahead of the Easter holidays.”
