Hull requests infrastructure funding

The cabinet has passed a five-year plan to improve many of the city’s bridges and monuments, and has written to the government asking for a share of the recently announced £1bn Structures Fund.

The fund is part of a national scheme to repair and futureproof England’s transport infrastructure and road network.

Work will focus on the city’s bridges, statues, and fountains, with strengthening and repair works planned for structures such as the Hessle Road Flyover, Sutton Road Bridge, Sutton Road Flyover, and North Bridge.

Ennerdale Bridge, Stoneferry Bridge, and the Millennium Footbridge will also have work carried out on them, predominantly the replacement of bearings.

Structural surveys are also planned for Victoria Pier and the River Hull Walkway.

Hull City Council is looking to change its approach to preserving the city’s infrastructure, by bringing together spending, inspections, and maintenance into one coordinated plan.

It is hoped that prioritising these infrastructure projects will improve traffic flow and the reliability of public transport, as well as encourage economic growth in the city and wider region.

Cllr Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “This programme marks a significant step forward for Hull. We’ve set out a plan to tackle some of the city’s most serious infrastructure challenges over the next five years.

“We’re investing in the future of our infrastructure, protecting Hull’s cultural heritage and ensuring reliable transport links for everyone here.

“This plan has Hull’s bridges at the heart of it and will help us avoid disruptive emergency closures and keep the city moving.

“By passing this plan the council is supporting Hull’s economy, preserving our culture and giving people who live here the infrastructure they deserve.

“The council has a plan, and if the government wants to support Hull, they’ll send more investment our way.”