The bridge on Hazledine Way, Shrewsbury

A bridge in Shrewsbury was seriously damaged today when a digger on the back of a lorry smashed into it.

Hazledine Way in Meole Brace had to be closed because of fears over the safety of the bridge after it was struck just after 7.40am.

Motorists faced rush-hour delays with traffic, pedestrians and cyclists diverted.

The lorry was carrying several large plant vehicles including the digger, which struck the centre part of the bridge.

Glyn Pugh, a spokesman for Shrewsbury police, said it was not believed anybody was on the bridge at the time.

He said the road was closed at the Reabrook and Meole Brace islands and diversions were put in place via Oteley Road, Wenlock Road and Haycock Way.

He said: “The bridge is in one piece but is unsafe. We need to keep everybody away from it and have taped off the footpath and blocked off the road and called for a structural engineer.”

Gareth Proffitt, spokesman for Shropshire Council, said: “The footbridge across the A5112 Hazledine Way – Meole Brace to Column link road – adjacent to the golf course, was struck by a high vehicle this morning.

“As a precaution the road has been closed awaiting a structural inspection of the bridge by the council’s consultants, Mouchel.

“A signed diversion route is in place, via Haycock Way, Wenlock Road to Weeping Cross island, Oteley Road to Meole Brace island and vice versa. There is access only to the Reabrook estate.”