Upper Forge Mill Bridge to close for essential repairs

Upper Forge Mill Bridge, which carries Astbury Lane near Eardington over the Mor Brook, will close to traffic on Monday 20 August 2012 for up to six weeks to enable essential repairs to be carried out to it. 

The proposed work will involve taking down and rebuilding the bridge’s downstream edge, which has been damaged by vehicular impact. 

Unfortunately, because of the narrow nature of the bridge, it will be necessary to close it to traffic to carry out the work safely.  It is therefore proposed to close it to traffic from 20 August 2012 for up to six weeks. 

When the bridge is closed, traffic will be diverted via the nearby B4555 road. 

Access over the bridge for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will remain available throughout the proposed work. 

In an attempt to prevent the repaired bridge from being damaged again, the proposed work will also include improving the signage at each end of the lane to inform drivers that the lane is unsuitable for use by HGVs. 

Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for bridge maintenance, said:

“This is essential work which needs to be carried out.  Whilst it is appreciated that the bridge closure will cause some disruption and inconvenience, please be assured that everyone involved will do all that they reasonably can to reopen it as soon as possible.”