THE initial result of the essential repair works on a Taunton landmark have been unveiled.

New painting can now be seen on the Grade II listed Town Bridge over the River Tone in the centre of Taunton.

Somerset County Gazette:

Works started in January and back then Somerset Council confirmed pedestrian access would be maintained at all times during the refurbishment.

Engineering reports revealed the need for extensive refurbishing works to the bridge structure, including concrete repairs, parapet repairs, new joints, waterproofing, and painting of the steelwork and ornate cast iron parapets.

The painting will ensure the steel and iron elements of the bridge are protected for another 30 to 40 years.

Somerset County Gazette:

Somerset County Gazette:

Funding has been ring-fenced for what is an essential structural repair programme.

The nearby Taunton Independent Quarter shared a message on Facebook that read: “Part of the work on the Tone Bridge has been uncovered today and it’s so nice to see it looking so fresh, bright, and clean.

“It’s also brilliant to be able to look across to Riverside Place and Somerset Square once again and to be able to see people using the river.”

Earlier this year Somerset Council said the works, which are being carried out by Walters UK, are expected to last nine months.

The road will be open to two-way traffic throughout virtually all of the project.

There may need to be some evening closures in the latter stages.