Traders at Wapping Wharf have spoken out about the extension of the Gaol Ferry Bridge closure by another three months. The first refurbishment in the bridge's 88-year history was extended in February, meaning it will be unlikely to reopen before September.
"Having removed the decking and started the process of stripping off the paint and corrosion, they were on programme. Unfortunately it has become clear that the bridge is in a worse condition than we had thought," Councillor Don Alexander, Cabinet Member for Transport, said last month.
At the time of the announcement, Wapping Wharf's owners, Umberslade, said it was "hugely saddened and disappointed" by the extension. The most recent update from Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees recognised that the news would most of all impact the traders at Wapping Wharf, a food and shopping district comprised of more than 45 independent businesses.
