Brigsteer and Underbarrow bridges, which run over the A591 near Kendal, will close from Wednesday 12 June, until further notice, as a precautionary measure due to structural concerns.
An external expert report commissioned by the Council has identified structural concerns and recommended a closure on both bridges to allow for further detailed assessment and monitoring.
Brigsteer and Underbarrow are reinforced concrete half joint bridges that were erected in the 1970’s. This type of bridge requires and receives bespoke and detailed assessments that are carried out by an external consultant across an extended period of time, to ensure they benefit from ongoing continuous review in line with national guidance.
The issues found on both bridges are not unique to Westmorland and Furness and it is expected that structures of this type and age across the country are likely to now require repair or replacement.
Throughout the closure that will be in place from 8:00am on Wednesday 12 June, all traffic including vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and emergency services will be required to follow the signed diversions that will be in place:
- Underbarrow Bridge via the C5048, U853 Queens Road (Kendal), A5284 Windermere Road (Kendal) , B5284, C5059 and C5048.
- Brigsteer Road Bridge via C5062, U782, U583 Queens Road (Kendal), A5284 Windermere Road (Kendal) , B5284, C5059 and C5062.
Phil Greenup, Assistant Director for Sustainable Transport and Highways said: “A full closure will be implemented as a precautionary measure for public safety on both bridges, until further notice, to allow for detailed assessments.
“We appreciate that these closures, even with the diversions, will cause inconvenience for residents, communities, and road users and we thank you in advance for your patience as we carry out these essential assessments.”
The A591 will remain open and is safe for road users to continue travelling on the route. By acting on the findings of the specialist report and closing off access to both Brigsteer and Underbarrow bridges, the safety of the A591 will not be compromised.
Throughout the closure period, the council will continue to monitor the condition of the bridges, and also the impact of the diversions on traffic in Kendal.
As part of Westmorland and Furness Council’s commitment to keeping communities safe, proactive assessments are carried out on the 1,075 bridges and structures the local authority is responsible for.