Lechlade Halfpenny Bridge damaged in car crash to reopen

A Grade II listed bridge, which was damaged after a car crashed into it, is set to reopen after a five-month closure.

Halfpenny Bridge in Lechlade, which dates back to 1792, has been closed for repairs since 20 June.

A road closure for was put in place on the A361 but it remained open to pedestrians and cyclists.

Following eight weeks of repairs, the bridge is due to reopen from 16:30 GMT on Friday.

Halfpenny Bridge is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, meaning the repairs required the approval of Historic England and the Secretary of State.

Gloucestershire County Council said a defect had been uncovered during the works which will require further repairs.

A hole has been discovered behind part of the brickworks at one end of the bridge but the council said it had been reviewed by engineers and the bridge can be safely reopened.

However, a footpath over the bridge and pedestrian arch below will remain closed until the repairs are completed.

Councillor Dom Morris, cabinet member for highways, said: "I know how hard the closure has been for local residents and businesses and I would like to thank them for their patience.

"This was a complex project and I'm grateful for the hard work of our highways team and all our partners for ensuring this was completed in the timeframe set out.

"The bridge will be continually monitored while final repairs are carried out and I hope these will be completed as soon as possible."

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