‘No start planned’ for work to repair bridge
DISRUPTION is set to continue indefinitely after it was confirmed there is ‘no planned start date’ for repairs to a bridge.
Gnat Hole Bridge, over the River Dean at Adlington Road, Bollington, was closed on February 2, after workers accidentally put a hole in it.
Now Cheshire East Council has said that the ‘seriously weakened’ structure will remain shut while a design for the repairs is created.
A statement from its highways department said: “The road closure was initially put in place for third party works – however unfortunately, during this works, serious damage was sustained.
“The bridge has been seriously weakened, which has enforced an extended closure of the road until a full repair can be completed.
“Our team are currently working on a design to complete a repair/reinstatement as a matter of urgency. But to date, there is no planned start date.
“Sincere apologies for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience during this time.”
The closure means motorists are unable to get into Bollington centre via Sugar Lane.
Among businesses to be affected is the nearby Vale Inn, but it has remained open and advised customers of alternative ways to get there.
The problems began when contractors excavating to install cables for Electricity North West dug through the bridge arch cracking stone and creating the hole.
A spokesperson for Electricity North West said: “A bridge on Adlington Road, Bollington has been damaged by a contractor working on our behalf installing ducts for electricity cables.
“We’re working with the local authority to ensure repairs are carried out as quickly as possible.”
Reacting to the news, one resident said: “It’s a shame it’s taken four weeks to be told no idea when the work will start this is a huge inconvenience to residents and local businesses.
“It shouldn’t take this long with still no repairs planned, the only bonus is Sugar Lane is nice and quiet.”
“This is a huge inconvenience to residents and local businesses.”