Bridge closed in south Shropshire for repairs

A bridge in South Shropshire is to be closed for up to two weeks for repairs with motorists diverted along the A49.

The bridge which carries the B4370 road over the Marsh Brook in Marshbrook, will involve taking down and rebuilding the bridge's downstream right parapet and wing wall.

Shropshire council said today that because the location of the bridge is between the A49 and the Network Rail crossing, it was necessary to close it to traffic to carry out the repair safely.

When the bridge is closed, from March 2, it is proposed to divert through traffic along the A49, A489 and B4370 roads via Wistanstow and Horderley.

Access over the bridge for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will remain available throughout the proposed work.

Claire Wild, Shropshire Council's Cabinet member responsible for bridge maintenance, said: ''This is essential work which needs to be carried out.

"It is appreciated that the bridge closure will cause some inconvenience, and everyone involved will do all that they reasonably can to reopen it as soon as possible."

David Evans and Lee Chapman, local Shropshire Councillors for Church Stretton and Craven Arms, said:

"This is part of a programme on repairs to bridges throughout Shropshire. There is never a best time of the year to undertake this type of repair. We do feel for the businesses that are affected, but trust that the contractors doing the job will keep disruption to a minimum, and we hope all goes to plan to complete the work ahead of time."