Ludlow's Ludford Bridge reopens

A historic south Shropshire bridge will reopen to traffic today following the completion of £110,000 emergency repairs after falling stonework left it in a dangerous condition.

Ludford Bridge, one of the main routes into Ludlow, has been closed since January 4 but was due to reopen from 4pm today.

Councillor Martin Taylor-Smith, Shropshire Council's cabinet member for transport, said: "It is appreciated that the closure of the bridge has caused significant inconvenience and disruption within the town, and I am pleased that it has been possible to reopen the bridge a week earlier than expected."

Work began on the 300-year-old bridge, which carries the B4361 across the River Teme into the town, after the freezing winter weather weakened supports and chunks of masonry fell away.

It had originally been estimated that the bridge would have to remain closed to traffic until Easter but the recent good weather has enabled the repair works to be completed early.

The news has been greeted with delight by traders, who have faced months of misery with road closures since the bridge was forced to shut.

Paul Heathman, managing director of Ludford Bridge Service Station said: "I'm delighted.

"It's been about three and a half months and it's affected the business quite badly.

"It will be a benefit not just to me but to all the businesses in this corner of the town."