Divers drafted in as part of £3.6 million project to maintain bridges across Hampshire
Structures include Bursledon Bridge over the river Hamble, the Haslar Bridge at Gosport, and the Redbridge Causeway bridges in Southampton
A six-year contract worth £3.6 million will see divers take the plunge to inspect and maintain more than 500 bridges and structures in Hampshire.
Structures covered include large bridges over tidal water, such as the Bursledon Bridge over the river Hamble, the Haslar Bridge at Gosport, and the Redbridge Causeway bridges.
Hampshire County Council has approved the £3.6 million contract renewal which will see divers check on bridges and structures across the county to ensure they remain safe and can handle heavy weights.
This will cover some 500 bridges or structures, with 366 needing a diver team, and the other 134 being confined spaces or needing a remotely operated vehicle (ROV).
Executive lead member for universal services councillor Nick Adams-Kings said: “Divers provide an absolutely vital service for us. They are able to check on the bridges and the part of the bridges that are underwater. Furthermore, they can access other areas where we need to access constraints and small places.”
The contract will begin in May and last four years until April 30, 2028. If both parties agree, the contract may be extended for two more years.