Parts of the A27 near Emsworth to close this weekend due to bridge repairs

It’s the second full weekend closure and the works are set to take place on the eastbound carriageway, a spokesperson for National Highways confirmed. In order to allow staff to carry out their duties safely, the road will be closed from 9pm on on Friday to 6am on Monday (September 23). Overnight closures on the westbound carriageway will continue from 9pm tonight (September 19) until 6am tomorrow.

Last week’s full weekend closure caused significant disruption and delays, as a result, National Highways is reminding motorists to plan their journeys and avoid the area around the closed section as far as possible.

Gemma Luckhurst, Programme Delivery Manager for National Highways in the South East Region, said: “Our job is to keep the country moving and we plan all our closures extremely carefully to minimise disruption. The extent of the delays we saw during the first weekend closure were unexpected and – as we do with every closure – we will review our actions to see if there’s anything we can do to improve on the actions we took.

“We always ensure signs are placed around the network – both locally and on connected routes – in advance of any closures to inform those regularly using the road as well as publishing information on our website, social media channels and working with journalists to raise awareness within the local community.

“While closures and short term disruption are a necessary byproduct to keep the strategic road network safe and in a good condition we care about the impact of our work and want to do everything we can to minimise inconvenience. If you are planning on being in the area of the closure and the diversion this weekend please plan your journey and allow extra travelling time.”

Clearly signposted divisions will be in place during the closures, and drivers are reminded of the route with eastbound traffic diverted via Park Road South, Park Road North, B2149, Bartons Road, Horndean Road, Southleigh Road and Emsworth Road. Westbound traffic will follow the same route in the opposite direction.

Next week, there will be four overnight closures on the Eastbound carriageway, lasting from 9pm to 6am between Monday September 23 and Thursday September 26. The road will reopen fully on Friday, September 27 upon completion of works.

It is hoped that the works, which include essential maintenance and repairs, will significantly extend the life of the bridge.