Investigation as cracks appear in canal bridge
ENGINEERS are to inspect a 200-year-old canal bridge in Hinckley as several large cracks have appeared in the structure.
The Nutts Lane bridge over Ashby Canal is used by vehicles, including lorries, and pedestrians.
Councillors have for years been raising concerns with the Canal and River Trust, as the brickwork has shown signs of damage.
Now borough councillors David Bill and Ann Pendlebury have met with Alan Leather and Linny Beaumont from the trust, to show them the areas causing concern.
There are several large cracks that can be seen on the bridge wall as you walk over it, as well as some on the sides that can be seen from the canal.
Some of the cracks have been marked with yellow markings and numbered.
Councillor Bill said: “It’s quite clear when you look at the bridge, that some surveying work has been done.
“Everybody that knows the bridge, knows that there are a number of cracks.
“It’s all minor damage, but it’s damage that can worsen if it doesn’t receive attention.
“It’s a valuable asset.”
The councillors were told that the trust will be producing a report into the condition of the bridge. Ms Beaumont, a manager at the trust, said: “The bridge is monitored regularly and there are no significant concerns about its safety since the last inspection.
“We have shared recent images with our engineers and are awaiting their feedback and any follow up actions as required, which will be shared with the councillors as soon as possible.”
Last year, the towpath around the bridge was widened and laid with a new surface, connecting the path to the Sansome Drive estate.
The £50,000 project was paid for thanks to section 106 funds from developer Taylor Wimpey.