Branston Bridge temporarily closed as investigatory works take place

Branston Bridge in Burton will be closed for five days to allow investigatory works to take place.

The 185-year-old bridge is currently under a weight and width restriction due to structural issues.

Now, the bridge will be closed from 28 October to 1 November so investigatory holes can be excavated, allowing engineers to locate utility services and inspect ground conditions.

Once this is done, engineers at Staffordshire County Council will be looking at solutions to strengthen the bridge and allow heavier vehicles to use it.

Options being considered are a temporary metal structure, or a concrete strengthening slab, but this will be determined by the investigatory works.

Diversions will be fully signed, and the closure has been designed to coincide with the school half-term holidays to minimise disruption as much as possible.

Staffordshire County Council Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways Mark Deaville said:

“The works taking place next week are essential to determine where utility works are, and so we can get a good idea of ground conditions. Once we have all this information, we can start making decisions on what the best solution to the issue is.

“We understand the inconvenience the closure will cause, but our priority is to ensure there is a safe structure in place so larger vehicles can eventually cross the bridge again. To do this, we need to know exactly what we’re dealing with so we can come up with the best solution, and get the evidence to talk to the Department for Transport about the funding required from government.

“Without the width restrictions, we would have to close the bridge permanently to all traffic, something that no one wants. I want to thank local residents for their patience while we undertake these important works, which will help us determine a way forward for Branston Bridge.”