Frosterley Bridge has been reopened after inspections were completed on damage caused by the recent bad weather.
The damage was identified after Storm Desmond hit the region, leading to the bridge being closed as a safety precaution until inspections could be carried out. This could only take place once the river levels had dropped sufficiently to allow fallen trees to be removed and for divers to safely examine the extent of any possible damage below the surface. With the rain having eased, the debris was cleared and inspections carried out on 11 January and the bridge was reopened the same afternoon.
Although there is some damage to the apron and cutwater at the base of the structure, which will both require repairs, the bridge is safe for the public to use.
An inspection carried out in the wake of the storm found damage to the apron to the front of a main support column of the bridge. The high river levels caused by the storm, coupled with further concerns over downed trees being forced into the bridge structure by the stronger currents, meant the bridge had to be closed as a safety precaution.
John Reed, Durham County Council’s head of technical services, said: “Until we were able to assess the damage it was essential to close the bridge to make sure everyone remained safe. We’re delighted that, now inspections have taken place, we have been able to reopen the bridge and would like to thank local residents for their patience.”