DRAMATIC photos show the the replacement of a Romsey bridge which left the M27 shut for two days.

Highways England have released pictures of the destruction of the former bridge, as well as the shiny, new replacement which sits in between J3 and J4 of the M27.

Despite traffic chaos throughout the weekend, the work was managed to be completed more than six hours early, with the work finishing at 11.30pm on Sunday, February 2 instead of 6am on Monday, February 3.

The new bridge is designed to last for the next 120 years.

Hampshire Chronicle:

Highways England project manager, Andrew Winson, said: “The demolition of the old Romsey Road bridge is a vital milestone in this project on this key route between Portsmouth and Southampton.

"We opened 6.5 hours ahead of schedule, which is a phenomenal achievement and testament to the hard work of the team and all contractors working on the demolition.

“I would like to thank drivers, businesses and residents for their patience throughout as we completed this important work."

Highways England teams used excavators fitted with hydraulic peckers and mechanical jaws to break down the eastern half of the bridge – built in 1974 – piece-by-piece.

While the motorway was closed, Highways England took the opportunity to carry out routine maintenance along the route.

Hampshire Chronicle: