Sir Bobby Robson’s memorial bridge is to be cleaned up for the first time since its construction in 2009 as a work force rolls up its sleeves to give it a scrub.
The footbridge, which was named after the Ipswich Town legend after his death in 2009, crosses the River Orwell connecting West End Road to residential properties on the other side.
Over time the white bridge has become stained by green algae that have settled on the sides, while moss lines the footpath.
John Clements, head of infrastructure for Suffolk Highways said the clean-up was being carried out as part of an inspection of the bridge.
He said: “It is a thorough look at the bridge at arms-length, checking the nuts and bolts and bearings of the bridge.
“Every bridge in Suffolk will be inspected to make sure it is in good condition and that it is safe to use.
“While we do that we are just going to give it a clean.
“It is an issue that has been high on people’s agenda so we wanted to take advantage of this opportunity.”
The work has been scheduled to take five days, with the first set aside for inspections and the rest for cleaning. But, with good weather forecast, Mr Clements expects it to be finished by Wednesday or Thursday.
A large crane has been brought in to assist the workers as they attempt to get as close to the bridge as possible for inspection.
Mr Clements continued: “Cleaning the bridge is no more complicated that using a bucket of water and a sponge.
“We have to be careful of the environment so we cannot use any detergent or soaps.
“We also cannot use power washers because that will push the dirt off the bridge straight into the river below.
“We tested the method beforehand to make sure it cleans the bridge effectively, and it works well.”
The bridge cost £800,000 to build and is 60 metres tall.
A diversion has been set up while the work takes place, however it takes pedestrians on a longer route - across the Princess Street bridge near Ipswich Station and along the B1075 to the residential estate.
Sir Bobby Robson was manager at Ipswich Town for 13 years between 1969 and 1982.
In that time his team won the FA cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981.
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