Hold-ups in contract mobilisation and scaffolding availability would have pushed waterproofing work into the winter.

Adverse weather, road salt, high water levels underneath the deck and decreased daylight would make the conditions unsuitable.

It has been agreed by the council and its contractor to postpone the work until the spring. 

The contract price will not be impacted, and the new timing will help make sure the repairs meet the required standard.

The Cot House Bridge has specialist half-joint detailing that necessitates particular care for the purpose of inspection and repair. 

Once the deck is exposed and inspected, the full extent of repair work will be confirmed.

Work will be delivered one lane at a time, with there being an £600,000 investment to extend the bridge’s life. 

The road surface will be removed to show the concrete deck for inspection and repair, then waterproofed and resurfaced ahead of the lane reopening and work progressing to the other lane. 

Councillor John Armour, policy lead for roads, transport and amenity services, said: “While the delay is regrettable, starting later than planned would extend this complex work further into winter. 

“Storm Boelo has shown the extreme conditions we may face.”

Armour added: “Rescheduling until daylight hours are longer and the weather is more settled will help ensure the repairs are carried out safely and to the required standard.”