Drivers have reacted furiously to news that Cobden Bridge is to close for an estimated six months from the start of May for “essential development work”.

 

Tens of thousands of drivers will have to endure motoring mayhem as they yet again struggle to find alternative routes into town for their daily commute.

And Cobden Bridge Residents' Association is already planning a protest, having slated the authorities' plans for the disruption they claim “will inevitably” be caused.

Flexible

bitternepark.info has learned that the work will involve the construction of a “flexible section” at the centre of the bridge, allowing it to rise when necessary to let large 'super' yachts sail as far upstream as Woodmill.

Luxury

NSP sources suggest that the move is designed to bring a slice of the lucrative luxury maritime market to the Triangle – and possibly even allow Bitterne Park to host its own boat show at Riverside Park as early as 2016. 

Chandleries could spring up, while Triangle cappuccino prices are expected to soar.

Artist's impression of the finished works

Sense

While some are pushing for a “common sense system”, we understand two new sets of lights will control traffic flow on the bridge when the work is finished – one set on each side of the flexible central section. New lights on Manor Farm Road are also expected to be required for sequencing reasons.

How the light sequencing could work in practice Source: NSP

Meanwhile dredging work will let even larger cruisers pass through to Woodmill.

Could luxury yachts like these become commonplace as far upstream as Woodmill?

Pressure

But fears are rife that the dredging will lead to further subsidence on the Bitterne Park side of the river, putting yet more pressure on the weak foundations of the Triangle clock tower, which as far back as 2002 was estimated to be standing 2 foot 1 inch out of vertical.

Cycle lanes will be unaffected by the forthcoming work.

 Yacht pic under CC2 by Zoli Erdos