Damaged bridge replacement delayed
Wednesday 4th November 2009, 7:59PM GMT.
The bridge on Hazledine Way, Shrewsbury
A Shrewsbury bridge which was severely damaged when a digger on the back of a lorry smashed into it is not due to be replaced until the New Year.
The footbridge over Hazeldine Way was struck at about 7.40am on October 21, with highways officials claiming it was sheer luck that it did not collapse.
Motorists faced rush-hour delays following the accident with traffic, pedestrians and cyclists diverted.
The central spans of the bridge were later taken down by the Shropshire Council with work now being carried out to mend it.
Repair work to the structure is expected to cost at least £100,000 with the council seeking to recoup the money from the insurers of the company responsible for the incident.
The lorry was carrying several large plant vehicles including the excavator, which struck the central part of the bridge, which is used by the golf course to take people to the practice field for lessons.
Laura Owen, spokeswoman for Shropshire Council, today said: “We are currently in discussions with the insurance company and hope to reopen the bridge by early 2010.”
John Williams, bridge team leader for Shropshire Council, said last month that it was fortunate the bridge had not collapsed as it could have been disastrous if anyone was on it or passing underneath at the time.
A crane was used to remove the central spans of the bridge.
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