Marlow Bridge is set to close once again this weekend, as work is making good progress.

The Grade I listed suspension bridge, which crosses the River Thames, was completed in 1832 and has suffered damage over time from heavy lorries.

Work to repair the bridge began last year and is expected to be completed by 2027.

As part of the restoration, the bridge has had to close over several weekends in recent months and is set to close this weekend, April 11 to 12, and again the following weekend, April 18 to 19.

In the latest update, the council said piling works are due to be completed on the northern side of the bridge, while a temporary propping system will continue to be built for both the southern and northern piers.

Replacement of the abutment and pier bearings is also underway, with surveys being conducted as old bearings are removed. Street lighting is planned to be reinstated during March and April.

The authority has described the work as the “most significant programme of repairs” the bridge has seen since the 1960s.

Thomas Broom, Buckinghamshire Council’s cabinet member for transport, explained: “We began structural works to the underside of the bridge in Summer 2025.

“This has included piling and coring beneath the structure, along with sandblasting and repainting.

“These stages are essential preparation for lifting the bridge and replacing key structural components that have reached the end of their working life.

“The project is technically complex. It requires multiple permits from the Environment Agency and careful work around an ageing structure in changing river conditions, particularly during January and February this year.”

He said that “progress has remained good” as works on the structure continue. Last year, plans to illuminate the bridge were approved after a government planning inspector overturned a refusal.

Cllr Broom continued: “A major milestone was reached during the full road closure in February when the first lift of the bridge was completed.

“This allowed engineers to replace four bearings on the north side. Work to remove and replace the remaining bearings on both sides will continue through April.

“Further structural works, alongside essential testing and monitoring, are scheduled to be completed by late Summer 2026.”

Buckinghamshire Council said contractors are working around the clock during weekend closures to minimise inconvenience for residents and ensure progress continues.

The council added that the last major works were completed between 1965 and 1966.

Marlow Bridge, which crosses the River Thames on the border between Buckinghamshire and Berkshire, was built between 1829 and 1832 and was designed by William Tierney Clark.