Historic bridge to close for £6.2m reconstruction

A historic bridge is set to close for reconstruction work at the end of the 2026 main visitor season and reopen in time for summer 2027.

The States of Guernsey said essential work on the Castle Cornet Bridge, part of which dates back to the 1800s, is expected to cost £6.2m.

Geomarine has been appointed as the contractor for the project and plans to begin demolition work in September 2026, with reconstruction of the bridge set to be mainly completed by May 2027, allowing it to reopen for the summer season.

The company would then carry out some final works in autumn 2027, the States said.

The castle normally closes for the winter season during the first week of November and reopens in March.

The concrete deck of the bridge, which connects the Castle Emplacement to the Castle Breakwater, is 75-years-old and has exceeded its design life.

It has also suffered corrosion, which led to additional safety measures and a ban on vehicles since 2023.

The reconstruction project would involve demolishing the concrete deck and the approach bridge to Castle Cornet.

The granite piers would be retained and strengthened to support the new concrete deck.

The States of Guernsey said the schedule was designed to mitigate the impact on the Castle and businesses that run from from the Castle Emplacement.

Businesses in the immediate vicinity were being notified of plans and informed of temporary changes to access and storage during construction.

Conditional planning permission has already been secured for the bridge reconstruction, and site investigations and preliminary works would begin in the coming months, the States said.

Helen Glencross, head of culture & heritage services, said: "Castle Cornet is one of Guernsey's most important and iconic heritage sites.

"The reconstruction of the bridge is essential to secure long-term public access, so we are pleased to see the project progressing on schedule and the works planned for outside the main visitor season, which safeguards our busiest months."

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