Blackpool Waterloo Road bridge works begin this week as Seasiders Way shuts for 11 weeks
Work is set to begin this week on a major programme of improvements to Waterloo Road bridge in Blackpool, aimed at strengthening the structure and protecting it for years to come.
Blackpool Council has confirmed that contractors will be on site from Wednesday, April 15, to carry out essential upgrades, including structural repairs and repainting to the bridge, which carries Waterloo Road over Seasiders Way.
To allow the work to be completed safely, Seasiders Way will be closed between Parkinson Way and Bloomfield Road from today (Monday, April 13) until Friday, June 26, 2026 – a period of around 11 weeks, weather permitting.
Despite the closure, Waterloo Road itself will remain open throughout the works, and local businesses will continue to operate as normal.
The council says the improvements are being delivered in phases to minimise disruption and avoid closing both roads at the same time. The current works form Phase 1 of the project, focusing on the lower section of the bridge.
A second phase is planned for spring 2027, which will involve work on the upper bridge and require a closure of Waterloo Road.
Diversions will be in place during the closure, with northbound traffic routed via Parkinson Way, Waterloo Road, Lytham Road and Bloomfield Road. Southbound traffic will be diverted via Bloomfield Road, Central Drive, Waterloo Road and Parkinson Way.
The council has thanked residents and motorists for their patience while the upgrades are carried out, adding that the scheme is designed to ensure the bridge remains safe and operational for decades to come.
The works are also scheduled to be completed ahead of the busy summer holiday period.