11 of 2026 - River Medway Navigation Closure – Maintenance Building Bridge Removal

Mariners are advised that Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council will be carrying out works to remove the Maintenance Building Bridge located adjacent to the Racecourse Sportsground, Tonbridge.

Works Programme

The works are scheduled to take place between:

Tuesday 21 July 2026 and Friday 24 July 2026

The bridge lift and removal operation is currently planned for:

Thursday 23 July 2026

Navigation Restrictions

To facilitate the safe lifting of the bridge by crane, the navigation channel in the vicinity of the works site will be temporarily closed to all navigation during the lifting operation.

The exact duration of the closure will be kept to the minimum necessary, however mariners should expect restrictions in the area throughout the day on 23 July 2026.

No vessels will be permitted to pass through the exclusion zone while lifting operations are underway.

Advice to River Users

All river users are requested to:

• Follow instructions issued by the Environment Agency and site personnel.
• Navigate with caution when approaching the area.
• Observe all temporary signage, safety barriers and exclusion zones.
• Allow additional time when planning journeys on the River Medway during the works period.

Further Information

The works are being undertaken by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and their appointed contractor. Appropriate safety controls and exclusion zones will be in place throughout the operation to ensure the safe removal of the bridge.

The Environment Agency thanks mariners for their cooperation and apologises for any inconvenience caused.