CALLS for a crucial third crossing over the River Thames have been reignited as repairs to Reading Bridge could cause up to a year of disruption for motorists.

Work to strengthen and waterproof the 100-year-old bridge begins in November but, while most of the repairs will be carried out with lane closures in place, Reading Borough Council transport leader Cllr Tony Page admitted there will be full closures next year.

Cllr Page stressed that even without the closure of Reading Bridge, a third crossing is vital for expanding the capacity of the borough’s road network. He said: “Obviously there is a very strong and compelling case for a third bridge over the Thames, even if there are no repairs to Reading Bridge, but clearly that further underlines the very precarious capacity that we have across the river.

“As we know, when Sonning Bridge and Whitchurch Bridge have been out of action it does cause additional strain. Clearly Reading’s campaign for a third bridge continues.”

Cllr Page will be meeting transport leaders from Oxfordshire County Council on Friday to discuss proposals for a third bridge, but said there is no guarantee of progress.

Preparations for the Reading Bridge project begin this month, with physical work on the bridge starting in November. The strengthening works are due to be completed by summer 2015.

Cllr Page stressed that, while most of the work will be carried out with lane and overnight closures, there will be full day and night closures of the bridge next year.

He said: “The work on Reading Bridge is essential. It is the first serious maintenance in 100 years.

“There will have to be a period where we will close the bridge day and night but we will keep that to an absolute minimum. There will be plenty of notice given ahead of that closure, but it won’t be this year.

“It will inevitably cause a level of disruption and frustration that I fully sympathise with.”