Worries over planned bridge work
Wednesday 25th February 2009, 12:08PM GMT.
A historic Shropshire bridge is to be closed for up to four months while repairs take place next year – with traders today claiming the closure could cause a hammer-blow to their businesses.
Businesses in Minsterley, near Shrewsbury, said the area around their shops will be like a “ghost ship” if the closure goes ahead, with one saying it could put him out of business.
Shropshire County Council says Minsterley Bridge will need to be closed for three to four months for repairs next year, but it is looking into “alternative arrangements”.
The 100-year-old bridge has been in need of repairs for years after being assessed as “weak” in 1994.
Bruce Bill, subpostmaster at Minsterley Post Office, said: “Three to four months is unacceptable. We’re going to be like a ghost ship down here.
“Any closure is going to affect our business and if it’s going to be closed for a long time it’s going to be dreadful.”
Kevin Wood, owner of Minsterley Meats, added: “I feel it wouldn’t be worth me opening my doors from as soon as they close the bridge.”
County council spokesman Simon Alton said: “We are in the process of finalising details for alternative arrangements. The footbridge alongside Minsterley Bridge will remain open during the work. We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused by the work.”
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