MOTORISTS will be banned from Shaldon Bridge next week as workmen carry out essential safety repairs.

Closed signs will be put in place on Monday night so concrete can be poured around the bridge pier support – which was found to contain rotting timber piles.

Officers at Devon County Council have worked the closures – between 6.30pm and 10.30pm – could be postponed due to bad weather.

Weight restrictions have already been imposed on the bridge while contractors have been sorting out other issues.

It’s hoped the restrictions will be lifted by Devon County Council in the coming weeks.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s cabinet member for highway management, said: ‘We are hoping the elements are with us this time so that we can get on with this essential repair.

‘It is not ideal that we are having to close the bridge during the week, but this is being done during the evening after peak travel time in order to minimise disruption as much as possible.

‘We are as keen as everyone else to get this bridge back to taking heavier loads as soon as possible.’

Teignmouth-based Contractors TMS Ltd will be carrying out the works and access for pedestrians will be maintained throughout the closure.

Ward county councillor Alistair Dewhirst added: ‘Obviously I am delighted for Shaldon residents that this work will now be completed and allow the bridge to be re-opened to all traffic.

‘I hope that people will use the opportunity to visit Shaldon and enjoy the wonderful shops, pubs and restaurants in the Christmas holiday.

‘Finally I would like to thank the Devon engineers and TMS for their tireless work in repairing the bridge as quickly as possible.’