Re-opening date for Stow Causeway Bridge in Stow Bridge remains uncertain as Norfolk County Council explore temporary fix
A village bridge could remain closed for several weeks as Norfolk County Council remains uncertain if a temporary fix can be made.
Stow Causeway Bridge’s closure was deemed as an emergency after a “serious structural defect” was found following an inspection carried out by Norfolk County Council.
The bridge, in Stow Bridge, was closed on Wednesday, October 25 and will remain so while the county council sees if a temporary support could be placed until permanent work can be carried out.
However, Mark North, deputy bridge team manager at Norfolk County Council, has since confirmed that in order for a full investigation of the bridge to take place, access is needed to the support bearings located at the west end of the structure.
Mr North said: “The earliest we’ve been able to arrange the floating access plant is week commencing November 13.
“We have arranged for temporary works specialists to attend site on the Thursday of that week to see if temporary support can be introduced.
“We are hoping a temporary solution can be introduced on the day, but this cannot be guaranteed at this stage.”
He added: “Unfortunately, until we’ve completed these investigations, it’s not possible to determine what the longer-term solution will be or how long it will take to get the bridge fully open to all traffic.”
One Network’s website currently states that the bridge closure will be in place until November 29.
A council spokesperson said: “We are urgently exploring the option of putting in place temporary support, which would allow the bridge to be reopened until permanent repairs can be carried out.
“This may result in a temporary weight limit being enforced over the bridge, but at this early stage, there is no guarantee this temporary fix is achievable.
“So the road may have to stay closed until permanent repairs are carried out.”
A signed diversion route will be in place for the duration of the closure with pedestrian access being maintained at all times.
The work will be carried out by the county council’s Community and Environmental Services Department.
Pedestrian access is still available.
