Preparatory works for major structural repairs to Bath's historic Cleveland Bridge will begin on May 4 with scaffolding erected ahead of the start of the £3.8 million scheme.

Traffic control will be in place at Bath's Cleveland Bridge from May 4 for four weeks while the scaffolding is put up and traffic will be reduced to one lane with traffic signals in place.

It was hoped work could start in April due to the urgency of the work, however due to the need to obtain various technical approvals and consent the start date has now been confirmed as May 4.

A full bridge closure will start in the week beginning May 31 when the major structural repair scheme begins, with diversion routes in place for motorists.

The diversions for Bath city centre routes during the closure as well as outer diversions for through traffic on the A36 can be viewed at Bath & North East Somerset Council's Cleveland Bridge webpage

Motorists are advised to familiarise themselves with the diversion routes to minimise disruption to their journeys and to consider whether they could walk, cycle or use another form of transport around the city instead. Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to cross the bridge while it is closed.

The bridge, a Grade II* listed structure, currently carries 17,000 vehicles a day. Despite routine maintenance, it needs extensive major structural repairs for it to continue to function safely and preserve its heritage value.

Bath & North East Somerset Council secured the funding for the scheme through the Government's Highways Challenge Fund.

Councillor Richard Samuel, acting leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: "Although these engineering works are bound to cause some disruption and inconvenience for drivers, it's essential that we ensure Cleveland Bridge continues to be safe to use and preserve its historic value.

"Please have a look at the diversion routes in advance to help you plan your journeys by car or consider whether you could leave your vehicle at home and walk, cycle or scoot around the city instead. Visitors to Bath can use the Park and Ride sites too."

Cleveland Bridge is a crucial link in the strategic road network between the A46 and the A36. It is expected to be closed to vehicles for 12 weeks from the week beginning May 31, but a timeline cannot be confirmed until the bridge is fully inspected following its closure.