Covered route built past collapsed Cockermouth Old Courthouse

A covered walkway has been built to allow pedestrians and cyclists to safely pass a partially collapsed historic building.

The back of the Grade II-listed Old Courthouse in Cockermouth, which sits on the River Cocker, fell into the water on Sunday and is at continued risk of further collapse.

The adjacent bridge is closed to vehicles as a precautionary measure.

Cumberland Council hopes the temporary path will "keep the town connected".

"Cockermouth is open for business and the new covered walkway provides access across the Cocker bridge," a spokesperson said.

"Please continue to support local traders and visit the town."

Architectural adviser Darren Ward has warned the collapse "appears to have put more strain" on the stable part of the Old Courthouse.

Earlier in the week, he said it was "just a matter of time before more of it falls down".

The council said it carried out a building survey on Thursday to assess the structure and gather information to help it decide what to do next.

The river embankment in the potential "drop zone" has already been fenced off and protective screening has been installed on the bridge.

Discussions were continuing with the owner of the building, the council said.

The town suffered serious flooding during Storm Desmond in 2015, which "overwhelmed" its defences.

In 2021, the same site was evacuated after heavy rain left its rear wall on the verge of collapse. It has not been used since.

The building, which is about 190 years old and was previously home to the The Honest Lawyer restaurant, was sold at auction in 2022.

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