Works to repair the damaged Seathwaite Bridge near Duddon will commence from Monday 9 November for a two-week period.
The works will require Cumbria County Council contractors to work beneath the bridge to remove the existing props and to install a custom support system. Unfortunately, the flood arch has deteriorated further in recent weeks and has a reduced load-bearing capacity.
To ensure works can be completed safely and efficiently, a road closure will be in place between 9am and 4pm each day whilst the works are undertaken, reverting to a 3-tonne restriction outside of these times.
Emergency services, cyclist and pedestrian access will be maintained during the closure. On completion of these works the bridge will have an increased capacity of 18 tonnes, which will allow an improved level of access to the farms and communities north of the bridge, without the need to use Hardknott or Wrynose Passes during the winter months.
The council has worked closely with the local farming community, feed and fuel merchants, school minibus service, the Parish Council and District Council, all of whom recognise the need to progress these works as a matter of urgency prior to the onset of winter and the likelihood of a permanent closure being necessary should the bridge deteriorate further.
The council will continue to work with the local community during the development of the full strengthening scheme to 40 tonnes, due to be carried out in summer 2021, when a further road closure will be required. Some of the works to be undertaken during November will become part of the permanent strengthening scheme, so by undertaking them now it should help to reduce the length of time that the bridge is closed next year.
Cllr Keith Little, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “These are vital works to strengthen a key route for the local community. It is important that we are able to carry out these works ahead of the colder weather, and they will also provide a strong foundation for the permanent strengthening works which are scheduled to commence next summer. Whilst some disruption may be likely during the closure periods, I’d like to thank the local community and other partners for their patience and input in to these essential works.”
