A road closure is in full force today, with fencing being erected around Cookham Bridge.

From Monday, October 16, the key travel route between Cookham and Bourne End was closed for "essential" maintenance works.

The works are due to last between 20 and 22 weeks, with an expected completion of March 2024.

READ MORE: Key travel route between Cookham and Bourne End closed for five months

It will mean residents and commuters will need to use a diversion route this winter, with many opting to go via the A404 or Taplow.

Signs are in place to direct motorists around the closure, however many motorists are still being caught out.

On Tuesday morning, a handful of motorists were forced to turn around outside The Ferry restaurant after trying their luck at going over the bridge.

A sign on the road at the corner of Ferry Lane reads: "Cookham Bridge closed October 16, 2023 until March 22, 2024."

Staged works will be taking place on the Grade II listed structure, while pedestrians and dismounted cyclists can pass over the bridge on foot.

The first phase of the maintenance will see the re-waterproofing of the bridge and once completed future phases will include bearing replacement, parapet repair and resurfacing.

It is hoped that the work will help extend the life of the structure, ensuring the bridge continues to serve the community for many years to come and will avoid more disruptive work in future years.