The future of Wirral’s M53 Bidston Moss Viaduct will be assessed through a technical survey.

United Kingdom – The Highways Agency is to conduct a full technical survey to assess the long-term future of the M53 Bidston Moss Viaduct in Wirral.

Interim strengthening of the viaduct has recently been completed, but the survey will find out whether more work is required.

"Road users will notice the technical experts on the viaduct, carrying out detailed testing to determine its future," said Mike Jackson, project manager for the Agency.

"As part of the project trial, welding will be carried out inside one of the box girders, which make up the viaduct, to see whether this would be a viable method of strengthening the viaduct."

Heavy goods vehicles were originally forbidden from travelling over the viaduct, but have now been allowed onto the inside lane.

Entry and exit slip roads have also been reduced to one lane until the survey is completed.