A MAJOR Southampton bridge which was closed for more than half a year is set to re-open tomorrow.

Central Bridge was shut originally for 24 weeks to replace a failing waterproof layer that protects the 130-year-old brick structure.

However the repairs took nearly three months longer than originally thought after engineers working on the bridge discovered several anomalies.

The bridge will now have a new road layout, designed to allow traffic to access the Itchen Bridge from Terminus Terrace and a new two-way cycle way along Marsh Lane, which is part of the Eastern Cycle Route.

The repairs which cost £1.6m were funded by government money to improve Southampton's network of bridges.

Cabinet Member for Transport Jacqui Rayment said: “I am pleased that this extensive and challenging project is now complete and that the people of Southampton will benefit from the improvements made.

“This project was huge undertaking, not made easier by the challenges along the way; but it is, however, now complete and will stand firm for many years to come.

“I am particularly proud of the innovations made within this project, in particular the improved connectivity for cyclists.

“The distance to cycle from Woolston to the city centre is now some 200m shorter, and the navigation of Saltmarsh Junction is now safer and more efficient.”

Central Bridge will be open from 11.30am tomorrow.