A Cockermouth bridge is set to reopen to two-way traffic this week.
Traffic has been restricted on Cocker Bridge following the partial collapse of the Old Courthouse in October last year.
It was initially reopened for foot traffic only then temporary traffic lights were installed.
Now, Cumberland Council said its highways team was set to reopen the bridge this Friday, July 12.
The council said: “Following a further structural assessment, a new safeguard will be put in place that will not only allow the bridge to reopen to two-way traffic but also remain protected from the partially collapsed Old Courthouse building.”
An alternative screening protection will be put in place on Friday and the existing scaffold on the bridge will be removed.
Some periods of temporary closure of the road may be required, at short notice, to dismantle the existing screen, the council said, and pledged to keep any disruption to the minimum.
Agencies – including Cumberland Council, Historic England, Natural England and the Environment Agency – continue to work together, the authority said.
Extensive investigations of the building have been undertaken by the council, with support of agencies.
The building continues to be standing, however any proposed work is impacted by:
- The site is land locked, access to allow any works to be undertaken is challenging.
- The building is Grade II-listed and any further works is required to be minimal to protect the fabric of the historic building.
- The River Cocker, adjacent to the site, is part of the River Derwent and Tributaries Site of Special Scientific Interest.
- The impact on waste flows and the protection of flood defences needs careful consideration.
- Any works need to minimise pollution from any debris.
- Requirements for archaeological investigation and subsequent detailed archaeological excavation if deemed necessary.
A Cumberland Council spokesman said: “Our officers continue to work with all the various partners and agencies involved in this issue.
“We are having to follow a complex legal process that involves the support of various council teams and external partners.
“Discussions are ongoing with the owner of the property.
“We have however taken steps to reopen the bridge to two-way traffic.”
