MP to meet government over latest bridge strike

The crash on Wednesday closed the A5 in both directions

A Leicestershire MP says he has arranged a meeting with the government to push for work to be carried out on a bridge repeatedly hit by lorries.

The A5 in Hinckley was closed in both directions on Wednesday after a lorry crashed into the Watling Street railway bridge and shed its load.

It follows dozens of similar crashes in recent years which has placed the bridge among the most frequently struck in the country.

Dr Luke Evans, the Conservative member for Hinckley and Bosworth, said changes were needed.

He posted on social media: "Every time the Watling Street bridge is hit - like it was yesterday - Hinckley, Higham on the Hill, Wykin and Burbage become a rat run, putting even more pressure on the roads in our town and villages.

"This morning I reiterated the issue of the Watling Street bridge and the need for improvements to the A5 with the new transport secretary.

"I'm pleased to have secured a meeting with the roads minister and will continue to push for the necessary improvements."

The move comes after transport body Midlands Connect highlighted the cost of recent crashes at the site.

'Improved performance'

In a 2023 report, it said its analysis of four recent crashes had put the combined cost to the economy at £126,000.

A scheme, which could reduce the number of crashes at the bridge, was approved by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council in June 2023.

Developers will lower the road under the bridge as part of work to build a warehouse and office complex nearby.

At the time, John Holmes - planning consultant for Agrarian Development Holdings - said planned works to the bridge, and the nearby Dodwells roundabout, would lead to an "improved A5 performance".