Overnight closures of the Dartford bridge have been extended this weekend.

The Crossing will be shut while contractors repair some of the safety barriers, sweep the carriageway, check lighting equipment and carry out final checks on the pylon bearing installed last week.

The bearing replacement work last weekend was successful, so the extended closure times, previously planned, are no longer needed.

It means the river crossing will now only be closed overnight from 10pm on Saturday until 5am on Sunday.

During this time, a contraflow diversion for southbound traffic will be in place through the east tunnel, and drivers travelling north will be able to use the west tunnel.

Drivers are being advised to plan ahead and leave extra time during their journeys.

For vehicles between 4.8m (15‘-9”) and 5.0m (16’-6”) high, an alternative diversion will be in place via the M25 clockwise.

For more information on the works, click here.

The bearings play a crucial role in transferring load from the bridge deck, and they also allow for thermal movement of the bridge as it expands and contracts in different temperatures.

These bearings have become worn over time, so they’re being replaced to help keep journeys safe and maintained over the next several decades.