Starks Bridge in Whixall to close for essential repairs

Starks Bridge, which carries Maltkiln Lane over the Shropshire Union Canal in Whixall, will close on Monday 12 November 2012 for up to five weeks to enable essential repairs to be carried out to it. 

The proposed repairs will involve replacing the lift-bridge’s timber ballast box, which is currently held together by temporary strapping, and cutting out and replacing the lifting frame’s bracing timber.  In both cases the repairs are necessary because of rot in the existing timber. 

Because the bridge is a scheduled ancient monument, the repair will be carried out on a like for like basis. 

Unfortunately, to carry out the proposed repair, it will be necessary to close the bridge to everyone for the duration of the work.  It is therefore proposed to close it for a period of up to five weeks starting on 12 November 2012. 

When the bridge is closed, people will be diverted over the nearby Dobson’s Bridge. 

The canal will continue to remain open for boats for the duration of the work. 

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

“This is essential work which needs to be carried out to enable the bridge to remain functional in the long term. 

“Whilst it is appreciated that the bridge closure will cause some inconvenience, please be assured that everyone involved will do all that they reasonably can to reopen it as soon as possible.” 

Pauline Dee, a local Shropshire Councillor for Wem, said:

“Though it will be an inconvenience for residents and visitors in the short term, this work will ensure that this bridge will be in use for many years to come.”