The Ministry of Public Works and Environment advises motorists and residents that the final phase of roadworks for the Swing Bridge detour route is underway, marking another important step towards construction of the new Swing Bridge.
Work has begun on the temporary mini-roundabout at the existing Swing Bridge. Paving, road markings and new signage must be completed before the new traffic arrangement can safely open.
Due to delays affecting paving works, the change is now expected to take effect in early October, weather permitting. Until then, the current one-way oval traffic system will remain in place. Motorists should continue following the existing route and posted signage until the Ministry confirms the changeover date.
Once the mini-roundabout opens, the current one-way oval will be removed, and the longer-term detour route will take effect. St. David’s Road will be closed to public traffic from both the Swing Bridge and Marginal Wharf sides. Access to Stocks Harbour will continue until bridge construction begins. St. David’s Road will then be used by contractors working on the bridge. All vehicles travelling to and from St. David’s, including cars, buses and tractor-trailers, will instead use Southside Road, Kindley Field Park and Gate Number One. At the new mini-roundabout, motorists will be able to continue towards St. George’s or travel around the roundabout to access St. David’s through Gate Number One and Kindley Field Park.
When the new traffic arrangement begins, the St. David’s bus stop will move to the new bus turnaround inside Kindley Field Park. A bus shelter is already available within the park, with an additional shelter canopy also planned. The Ministry is also exploring additional lighting at the bus stop and along Southside Road to improve visibility.
The detour route, including the mini-roundabout, bus turnaround and new roundabout at Waller’s Point Road, is expected to remain in place throughout construction of the new Swing Bridge, currently estimated at approximately three years.
Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon. Jaché Adams, JP, MP, said:“We recognise that this will be a significant change, particularly for residents and commuters who travel these roads every day. There will naturally be an adjustment period, but I want to reassure the public that access to both St. David’s and St. George’s will be maintained throughout the bridge works.
“These changes are necessary to allow construction of the new Swing Bridge to move forward safely, and we have worked to put arrangements in place that keep traffic moving while that work takes place. I encourage motorists to familiarise themselves with the new route, follow the signage and take a little extra care as everyone adjusts.”
The Ministry will confirm the changeover date before the new traffic arrangement takes effect and will provide maps, traffic advisories and video updates to help motorists prepare.
For the latest project and traffic information, follow the Ministry’s official communication channels and @swingbridgebda on Instagram.
