Essential works on a bridge in Blackpool have been delayed because of nesting birds, the local council confirmed this week. Waterloo Road bridge has been undergoing structural repairs and repainting since April 15, as part of a first phase of improvements aimed at protecting the bridge for decades to come.
Delay due to protected nests
Blackpool Council said it discovered a number of nests built by birds in the scaffolding. Under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981, nesting birds are legally protected and cannot be disturbed while in use without appropriate licences. The council worked with environmental specialists to manage the situation safely and legally without harming the birds.
This careful process has now been completed, but it has resulted in a delay to the programme. The works are now expected to be completed by the end of July 2026.
Phase one and traffic management
Phase one focuses on the lower bridge, carried out by Coating Services Ltd. The council said its teams and contractors are working nights and weekends where possible to recover time. To complete the works safely, Seasiders Way remains closed between Parkinson Way and Bloomfield Road. Waterloo Road will remain open throughout the works.
Diversions are in place: northbound via Parkinson Way, Waterloo Road, Lytham Road and Bloomfield Road; southbound via Bloomfield Road, Central Drive, Waterloo Road and Parkinson Way.
Phase two and benefits
The second phase will involve work on the upper bridge and closure of Waterloo Road, beginning in spring 2027. Once completed, the upgrades will protect steelwork by removing old lead-based paint and repainting, support structural integrity through brickwork repairs, improve safety with upgraded barriers and clearer signage, and improve the pedestrian footbridge.
