Decades of increasing traffic volumes and vehicle weights have led to the deterioration of Islip bridge. Action is needed to ensure it can continue to function safely. 

Feasibility studies have been undertaken to identify the best value solution to allow the bridge to continue to carry full highway loading. The best solution is to channelise traffic loading across the stronger central portion of the bridge. This could be achieved by narrowing the road to one lane and managing the traffic flow with traffic signals. It would also create a new opportunity to improve pedestrian accessibility and deter through the village ‘rat running’.

To help predict traffic and environmental changes if traffic signals were installed, a monitored 3-way traffic signals trial was carried out during the summer 2022, whilst below bridge stonework repairs were carried out. Traffic data was collected pre-trial in May 2022 and during the trial during the month of July and the first two weeks of September. Air quality and noise levels were also monitored before and during the trial at key locations around the village.