Medieval bridge set for £5m repairs damaged again

A medieval bridge that was earmarked for a £5m repair project, after it partially collapsed during a flood in 2024, has been further damaged in Storm Claudia.

Powick Old Bridge, Worcester, has seen two coping stones and a "number of bricks" dislodged after a loose tree trunk collided with it, according to Worcestershire County Council.

A council spokesperson said the main structure, including the temporary support system, was not affected.

They said the council was "addressing the minor damage and will carry out the necessary repairs to make good the affected area".

It comes after the Reform cabinet at the county council agreed to allocate the £5m needed to repair the bridge in October.

They hope to start work in 2027, with the structure expected to reopen in 2028.

Speaking after the funding had been agreed, councillor Alan Amos, a Reform cabinet member, said: "I'm absolutely over the moon."

Powick Old Bridge played a key role in the first engagement of the English Civil War, the Battle of Powick Bridge on 23 September, 1642.

It was also the scene of its final battle - the Battle of Worcester - on 3 September, 1651.

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