Council Appoints Mason Clark Associates to Help Fix Hull’s Bridges

Anyone living in or around Hull knows that the city’s bridges are more than just ways to get from A to B. They are part of the landscape, woven into the daily commute, the school run, and the city’s rich history. But, like anything that works hard, they need a bit of TLC from time to time. The great news, announced on 02 February 2026, is that Hull City Council has a big plan in motion and has brought in some local experts, Mason Clark Associates, to lead the charge on essential repair and maintenance works for these vital links.

What’s the big plan for Hull’s bridges?

This isn't just about patching up a few potholes. It’s a major part of the council’s five-year infrastructure investment programme, a plan that got the green light back in June 2025. The whole idea is to give a serious upgrade to Hull’s most important structures, including its iconic bridges, statues, and monuments. It’s all about making sure the city’s transport network is reliable and ready for whatever the future holds. Think of it as a massive health check-up for the city's bones.

Several key bridges are on the list for some much-needed attention. The plan is pretty comprehensive and includes a variety of different jobs, from strengthening work to complete replacements. Here’s a look at some of the main projects:

• North Bridge: This one is set for strengthening and repair work to keep it sturdy for years to come.

• Scale Lane Footbridge: Known for its unique design, it needs some mechanical repair to keep it swinging smoothly for pedestrians.

• Priory Drive Footbridge: This bridge is scheduled for removal and a full replacement, bringing a brand-new structure to the area.

• Sculcoates Bridge: Many locals know this one as the Chapman Street Bridge. It’s set for a full restoration, preserving its historic character.

Why Mason Clark Associates are the right team for the job

When you’re dealing with something as important as the city's bridges, you need people who really know their stuff. That’s why the council sought out a specialist engineering consultant with heaps of technical expertise. And who better than a company right on their doorstep? Mason Clark Associates is a Hull-based firm, which means they don’t just see these structures as projects; they see them as part of their own community. Their local knowledge is a huge plus.

This isn’t their first time working on Hull’s bridges, either. They’ve already been involved in several schemes, so they have a deep understanding of the challenges. For instance, they are currently carrying out detailed investigations on the Scale Lane Footbridge and have played a key role in the ongoing Drypool Bridge repair scheme. In that project, their expertise has been vital in ensuring the design for the repair work respects the structure’s unique heritage and history. Handing this big programme to Mason Clark Associates ensures continuity and creates efficiencies, meaning the projects can run smoothly with one dedicated point of contact. This approach helps keep everything consistent and on track.

Preserving Hull's history and identity

The bridges in Hull are more than just steel and stone; they are part of the city's identity. They tell a story of its maritime history and industrial past. That's why this project is as much about preservation as it is about repair. The work being done, especially on historic structures like the Chapman Street Bridge and as part of the Drypool Bridge repair scheme, is carefully planned to protect their heritage. It's a delicate balancing act – making sure a bridge is safe and functional for modern transport needs while keeping its historical character intact.

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, who is the cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, really hit home how important this is. He said: “Hull’s bridges are a vital part of daily travel for our residents, businesses and visitors and we know how much they matter to people across the city. Many of these structures have been part of Hull’s history for generations and we want to ensure they are futureproofed for generations to come.”

He added: “We’re committed to listening to people’s concerns and taking real action, which is why our infrastructure investment programme places such a strong focus on improving these key bridges. These projects will not only keep our transport network reliable, but also support local businesses and drive economic growth across the region. Appointing Mason Clark Associates is an important step forward and their local knowledge and technical expertise will help us deliver these improvements to a high standard and keep Hull moving.”

A word from the engineering experts

It’s clear the team at Mason Clark Associates is proud to be taking on this responsibility. They understand that these aren't just engineering assets; they are landmarks that local people care about deeply. Their Director of Bridges, Andy Thompson, shared his thoughts on the project, highlighting the personal connection his team has with the city. This isn’t just another job for them; it’s about looking after their own backyard.

Andy Thompson explained: “As a Hull‑based company, we take enormous pride in the bridges that form such an important part of the city’s identity and daily life. Many of our staff live as well as work in the city, so these structures aren’t just engineering assets to us, they’re part of our own communities and the places we care about.”

He continued,

We’re very pleased to be supporting Hull City Council across this programme. The work ahead is complex and varied, but it offers a real opportunity to protect and improve some of Hull’s most significant pieces of infrastructure. Our team has been involved in a number of these bridges over many years, so we understand both their technical challenges and their historical importance. Our focus is to bring that experience to ensure every scheme is delivered thoroughly and to a high standard, providing long‑term benefits for residents, businesses and visitors. We’re committed to working collaboratively with the council and with local stakeholders to help ensure the city’s bridges remain safe, reliable and fit for the future.

This commitment means that Hull’s bridges are in safe hands. The combination of the council's investment and the local, specialist knowledge of an expert engineering consultant is a fantastic step towards ensuring these structures are not only repaired but are truly futureproofed, ready to serve the city for many more generations.