Runcorn Bridge Shut Both Ways

[viscount]

Tried to cross the Bridge from the Widnes side along the Ford Road at a little before 2pm. The Matrix before the bridge stated that it was closed so, easily came off at the Widnes turn and could see the traffic halted on the bridge approach road - so was pleased with the decision to postpone my journey and return home.

At 6pm tried again. The matrix stated 'Caution high winds across bridge'. No problem then, so proceeded - only to ground to a halt in a traffic queue, to creep forward and be turned around back into Widnes. Could have diverted via the tunnel as I had left time to, if only the matrix had still been showing the bridge as closed and prevented the wasted 25 minute stop, crawl and turn-back on a time critical journey for hospital visiting at Denbigh.

Local radio a dead loss on a Sunday for traffic information.

Somewhat frustrated!!

[speedbird1960]

I have just checked @ 19:55 and confirm that the bridge is still closed.

Mersey road Runcorn is also blocked of due a possible jumper, all Emergency Services are in attendance.

Lets hope it all turns out well, i agree Viscount that more information about closures and diversions would helpful for motorists.

[Deleted]

According to a few of the tweets online the Matrix sign's are to do with the Council, hence them not displaying any information about the bridge being closed.

There's reports that the guy has been up there since 11:49 this morning, I hope it turns out well though and they manage to talk him down safely.

[Jonathan Gallagher]

Current Tweet (5 Mins ago) Posted around 2135 - added by Admin for clarity

NW Motorway Police ‏@nwmwaypolice

Police incident: The Widnes/Runcorn Bridge is still closed...

[viscount]

On my second attempt at a crossing yesterday from the Liverpool side, I was caught out by the matrix sign just before the exit to Widnes having been changed from 'Bridge closed' to 'Caution high winds' (so giving the impression it was open). Surely 'bridge closed' was the more accurate message.

On consideration, the wind message is probably an automated response from a sensor - only yesterday it replaced a more important message entered by a control room earlier in the day!

[jake3]

Rang Widnes police station this morning (0600) to check on the bridge only to be told that it was expected to reopen in the next hour. Headed for the tunnel only to hear 5 minutes later that the bridge was open and traffic flowing freely ?? !!!!!!!!!!!!