ST. George's Swing Bridge will be closed for construction and repairs from November 1.

The Ministry of Works & Engineering made the announcement yesterday, and asked that motorists remain patient while the work is being completed.

"There will be some resurfacing work carried out starting in early December," said a Government spokesman. "There will be some delays because each lane of the bridge will be closed in turn to allow for the repairs and resurfacing to be done. Motorists are asked to be patient during this period and to allow themselves plenty of time to travel into Hamilton. Traffic lights will be installed and every effort will be made to keep delays to a minimum."

It is expected that the bridge will remain closed until mid-February, the spokesperson added. It will then be put through a test period of swings after which, if there are no problems, it should be back in operation by March 15, 2003.