Historic bridge to reopen at the end of the month

A bridge damaged by two crashes is expected to reopen within weeks.

Gloucestershire County Council said it was set to complete repairs to Priory Mill Bridge in Lechlade by the end of February.

The bridge was first damaged in August 2024 when it was hit by a large vehicle. More damaged was caused in December 2024 when another vehicle crashed into it.

The council's director of transport and highways Jason Humm said: "We appreciate the impact of the road closure on residents and businesses and would like to thank them for their patience."

Due to the narrow width of the bridge and the space required for construction crews, the council said the road had to be closed during the repairs.

The council said it hoped to reopen the road to all traffic by the middle of March.

It said repairs to the southern parapet were complete and repairs to the northern parapet were underway and are expected to be completed by the end of February.

Mr Humm added: "Conditions have been challenging due to the historic nature of the bridge, requiring specialist repairs, and the impact of a second vehicle collision during our rebuilding efforts.

"However, we're working as swiftly as possible and look forward to re-opening the road at the end of this month."

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