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Bridge collapse warning after barriers removed

News imageWestmorland and Furness Council A iron bridge with panels is supported by pillars which look like concrete. The water flowing under it is swollen and there is a lot of debris - including trees and branches - mounted up against one of the pillars.Westmorland and Furness Council
Holme Farm Bridge was closed to pedestrians and vehicles on 3 September

Barriers preventing access to a bridge at risk of "catastrophic collapse" have been pulled aside, local authority chiefs have said.

Westmorland and Furness Council closed Holme Farm Bridge in Appleby, Cumbria, to pedestrians on 3 September following an earlier ban on vehicles.

The council said that "while the bridge may look safe, the issues are hidden underwater", with one of its abutments being undermined.

The authority said it understood the closure was inconvenient but added that "people should not be risking their own and others' safety by removing the barriers".

News imageWestmorland and Furness Council A grainy grey image of a bridge structure under water. The metal structure, which has dirt and plants stuck to it, looks worn and part of it has given way.Westmorland and Furness Council
Issues with the bridge are hidden under the water

The council said it was in talks with the bridge owner about its future.

It follows an order earlier in the year which saw vehicles banned from using the structure.

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