Despite claims by the DTEI the structural integrity of the bridge was not at risk, there was concern a collapse would damage the pylons supporting the bridge.

Work began on Friday to prevent such an event and should be completed by the end of the month.

About 2.5 metres of soil will be removed from the western riverbank to reduce the risk of riverbank collapse as the water levels are expected to drop this summer.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transport said the bridge carried about 6800 vehicles a day.

“DTEI is undertaking works to relocate the levee bank as a precautionary measure to reduce any risk of damage to the bridge pylons should a collapse occur in the future,” they said.

The spokesperson said to date no other work had been carried out on any other bridges in the region due to the risk of collapsing banks.

“The eastern side has shallow soil over rock and therefore does not present any risk of riverbank collapse with lower water levels,” they said.

“No works will be undertaken into the river and the works are confined within the Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure’s property boundary.”

As the water levels drop in the coming months the likelihood of more riverbank collapses was expected.