The QEII Bridge remains firmly closed amid ongoing safety concerns as emergency teams and National Highways work to resolve a complex situation high above the river.
During Monday’s busy evening rush hour, a contraflow was established through the tunnel to allow vehicles to continue crossing the river. However, police have warned that the bridge closure is not expected to end anytime soon.
Officers anticipate that the QEII Bridge will remain shut throughout Monday night and into Tuesday morning’s peak travel times.
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow has urged motorists to avoid the area where possible and to seek alternative routes to minimise disruption.
He said, “We understand how frustrating this situation is for people wanting to use the bridge and go about their business. Let me assure you we are doing all we can to resolve this situation quickly and safely.”
“It is a complex situation due to the height the people on the bridge are at. Our colleagues at National Highways, who have responsibility for the bridge, have made an assessment that it is not currently safe to re-open the road.”
“We will take action against anyone who puts life in danger or thinks they can selfishly stop others getting to and from work or just going about their daily lives. The impact is far reaching, especially for the local community.”
“I would again like to re-iterate my thanks to the public for their patience and understanding. I assure them that we continue to work with our partners to bring this dangerous and irresponsible disruption to an end.”
“Our priority is to keep people safe and keep Essex moving.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
