Kingsferry Bridge repairs

The Kingsferry Bridge was built in the 1950’s and is a vital rail, road, pedestrian and cycle link for the people of Sheppey. It is also vital for the movement of billions of pounds worth of goods by ship each year.

The bridge utilises 40 steel ropes to lift the bridge deck. These ropes were last replaced in 1995 and are now coming to the end of their life. Recent Magnetic Resonance Testing (MRT) has found the some of the ropes have degraded and urgently need replaced.

Network Rail are replacing the 40 steel ropes in a series of closures this summer.

The structure will be closed to motorists, pedestrians and cyclists:

• 10pm Friday 7 June to 5am Monday 10 June
• 10pm Friday 28 June to 5am Sunday 7 July
• 10pm Friday 12 July to 5am Monday 15 July
• 10pm Friday 19 July to 5am Sunday 29 July

This program has been developed to allow the bridge to operate as normal between closures to reduce impact.

When Kingsferry Bridge is closed, motorists are advised to use the Sheppey Crossing – if travelling to and from the Island, please plan ahead and allow extra time for your journey.  

Doing the work in summer reduces the risk of Sheppey Crossing closing due to high winds while work on Kingsferry is taking place. However, as the unexpected can happen, please check on our social media channels before you travel.

During the bridge closures, a rail replacement bus and/or shuttle bus will be in operation to transport rail, foot and bicycle users.

Thank you to everyone in advance for your patience while we support this essential maintenance work.

You can find more information about this work and rail replacement buses on Network Rail’s website, and if you have any queries, please call Network Rail's National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41.