CIVIC chiefs say they are satisfied with the progress being made on a project to repair a vital transport link.

The Redbridge Viaduct, one of the key routes in and out of Southampton and the docks, is being refurbished to ensure it can continue to be used by 60,000 vehicles day.

Repairs started at the beginning of the year and "remain on track", according to Hampshire County Council.

Cllr Rob Humby, executive member for economy, transport and environment, said: "Our teams are working hard to keep this key access route open to all traffic, repairing over 100 concrete supports.

"Those travelling over the bridge may not notice the extent of the work going on underneath them and the efforts being made to limit disruption.

"I was pleased to see how well the work is progressing, how the unique marine environment is being protected while the repairs are carried out, and how stringent Covid-safe measures are in place for all those working on site.”

The viaduct is part of the Redbridge Causeway, a set of concrete bridges over the River Test between Southampton and Totton.

Cllr Humby said: “Redbridge Causeway is a key link between the Port of Southampton and the western side of Southampton Water.

"It carries freight and commuters over the River Test and the Southampton to Romsey railway line, and is the only direct route for pedestrians and cyclists to cross the river.

“It is an essential route not only for the local economy but also for import and export business affecting the whole of the country.

"We have put in a bid for national funding for the repairs Redbridge urgently needs in recognition of its importance to the UK economy, particularly at this crucial time for business following the coronavirus outbreak and as we head towards the UK’s exit from the EU.”

Work is being carried out in a sequence that limits the need for temporary propping and any lane closures on the road above.

The next stage of the project will include the installation of a cathodic protection system which will prolong the lifespan of the structure by applying a low voltage electrical current to the steel reinforcement inside the concrete supports, thus reducing the likelihood of further corrosion and degradation.

As reported in the Daily Echo the project is expected to take between 18 and 20 months to complete.