Important Travel Advisory: Kingsferry Bridge Eight-Day Closure

Starting this Friday evening, travelers to and from the Isle of Sheppey need to be aware of the first eight-day closure of Kingsferry Bridge. From 10:00 PM on June 28 to 5:00 AM on July 7, the bridge will be closed for essential maintenance work.

During this period, the bridge will be inaccessible to all vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and maritime vessels. Rail services between Sittingbourne and Sheerness will also be affected. Replacement bus services will operate, but travelers should expect longer journey times.This historic bridge, built in 1960, requires urgent repairs, including the replacement of 40 steel ropes that lift the bridge for maritime traffic. The first phase of this work was completed successfully earlier this month, but the upcoming closure will further impact travel plans.

David Davidson, Network Rail’s Kent route director, emphasized the necessity of these repairs, noting that weekday traffic is expected to be heavier. Southeastern’s Operations and Safety Director, Scott Brightwell, assured travelers that additional bus services and expanded cycle storage facilities will be available at Sheerness and Sittingbourne stations. Passengers with accessibility needs can request taxi services.

Swale station will not be served during the closures. Passengers are advised to contact customer relations for alternative arrangements. The bridge closures are scheduled for June 28 to July 7, July 12 to July 15, and July 19 to July 28.

For more detailed travel advice and project updates, visitthis website.