Broad Bridge, near Stableford – update (30 November 2017)

Broad Bridge near Stableford was closed to both traffic and pedestrians on an emergency basis in the early hours of Tuesday 28 November after a Heavy Goods Vehicle collided with the upstream parapet of the bridge resulting in severe damage to the bridge spandrel and parapet. The driver was taken to hospital. The HGV was retrieved and removed from the embankment on Tuesday lunchtime.

The bridge, which carries the B4176 road, has now reopened under two-way temporary traffic lights after temporary edge protection was installed at the bridge.

Stone from the road has been removed. There is still some stone lying in the invert which needs to retrieved – this will be done over the coming weeks without causing further major disruption.

Shropshire Council’s consultant WSP are carrying out a thorough inspection to confirm the condition of the rest of the bridge. This inspection will allow for the repair scheme to be designed and enable the new stone to be ordered.

Because of the bridge’s Grade II Listed status, WSP will be liaising with Shropshire Council’s Historic Environment Team throughout the design and repair process.

Due to the type of material used in the construction of the bridge the permanent repair will be programmed for spring 2018 and exact dates will be confirmed nearer the time. It will be necessary to close the bridge again at this time to allow the re-construction to be completed safely.

During this lead-in period WSP and Shropshire Council will work together with local businesses and property owners to design a suitable diversion route and signing scheme.