“ESSENTIAL” bridge repairs on a major Teesside route are expected to bring disruption and diversions for two months. 

Mandale Road bridge, in Thornaby, will close between July 3 and September 3 for the work mainly underneath the structure.

It will mean the road will be shut between Yale Crescent and Railway Terrace for two months.

A diversion onto George Street will see the road converted from a one-way system to two-way traffic while repairs are carried out. 

The bridge into Stockton town centre has been in use for more than 40 years and officials say it needs important repairs and maintenance to prolong its life for another 20 to 25 years. 

The access road to Thornaby Station will also be closed.

And some smaller construction works will also be carried out on Mandale Road and George Street until June 25 – with lane closures at “off-peak times” between 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Station car and taxi drop-off points will be moved on Mandale Road close to Thornaby Town Hall.

Alternative temporary bus stops will be placed as close to the station as possible.

Officials say access to businesses in the area will be maintained throughout the closure with the Mandale estate, Robert Street and Stephenson Street accessed by following the diversion route, while access to the Bonlea and Gladstone estates will be unchanged via Harewood Road.

Last month, councillors at the place select committee heard the repair work was imminent amid a shortfall in maintenance budgets. 

Cllr Mike Smith, cabinet member for environment and transport, added: “The majority of the works are being carried out to the underside of the bridge but inevitably there will be some disruption while the road is closed for repair.

“We’ve scheduled most of the work to coincide with the summer holidays when traffic is usually lighter, and signed diversions will be in place for the duration of the closure.

“These essential repairs will strengthen the bridge and extend its life so that people can use it for many more years. 

“We thank everyone for their patience while the works are carried out.”