Repair plan for damaged listed bridge

2 days ago

Tim DaleYorkshire

News image — The listed bridge has been closed to traffic, pedestrians and cyclists since 3 September

North Yorkshire Council A tall grey stone arch with a cross on each side over a single road. The picture shows a works vehicle under the bridge with a cone in the middle of the picture to the right of the road. — The listed bridge has been closed to traffic, pedestrians and cyclists since 3 September

Temporary repairs to a 19th-Century bridge that was damaged in a crash involving a lorry could be completed by the end of October.

The Grade II listed Middleham Bridge, which links Middleham and Leyburn, was closed to all traffic, pedestrians and cyclists after the crash on 3 September.

The closure was due to concerns over the structural stability of one of the bridge's decorative masonry arches and North Yorkshire Council said it was in the process of appointing a specialist contractor.

They will undertake the works and install temporary scaffolding to support the damaged arch, enabling engineers to carry out detailed inspections and emergency repairs safely.

The authority said, subject to final arrangements being completed, the initial phase of works is expected to begin in the coming weeks.

The temporary works are due to be finished by the end of October, enabling the bridge to reopen, with a diversion remaining in place until then.

However, this remains dependent on the condition of the structure once work starts and the availability of specialist contractors.

North Yorkshire Council Stone bridge with a height and width restriction traffic sign in the middle of the top of the bridge. Image shows the top left hand corner of the bridge with a gap in the stone work. — The damaged arch on Middleham Bridge, which has lost sections of stonework after it was struck by a heavy goods vehicle

The cost of repairs is unknown ahead of structural assessments but the council said it would seek to recover repair costs from those responsible for the damage.

North Yorkshire Council's executive member for highways and transportation, Malcolm Taylor, said it was grateful for people's patience with the disruption caused by the closure.

"Given the bridge's age, historic significance and listed status, it is vital that we fully understand the extent of the damage and ensure that repairs are carried out in a way that preserves its heritage while maintaining public safety."

He said the priority was to make the structure safe and develop a "longer-term solution that protects this important landmark for future generations".

Subject to the necessary approvals, including listed building consent, the permanent repair programme is expected to begin in spring 2027.

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