For nearly two years, uninvestigated and unproven risks have been used as an excuse to barricade the bridge out of service with a mass of concrete blocks and assorted fencing. Statutory justification, required by the emergency closure on 30.06.2023, has not been provided. An FOI confirms the cost of installation and twice-weekly inspection of the barricades has cost £66,975. This is on top of £500,000+ Highways have spent on desk studies and reports to support the questionable claim that there is no acceptable alternative to their proposal.

A statement from ECCs Democratic Services on 09.05.2025 advises that “We are hopeful that they will undertake the load testing within the next few weeks.”

If the load test results prove satisfactory highways say they will consider re opening the bridge for cyclists, pedestrians, and canoeists. 

SAVE OUR BRIDGE!