'Meticulous' new lanterns to be fitted on bridge

The Grade II-listed bridge spans the River Severn in Stourport and it's original lantern fittings had deteriorated beyond repair

A new set of heritage lanterns are to be installed on a Grade-II listed Worcestershire bridge after the original fittings deteriorated.

Eighteen new lanterns will be fitted on Stourport Bridge, replacing the temporary lighting which has been in place since the originals were removed in 2024.

Work will begin on Monday, with temporary traffic lights being used to also allow the repainting of existing lamp columns, Worcestershire County Council said.

The new lanterns, using LEDs, have been produced by the original manufacturer "to ensure authenticity and meticulous attention to detail".

"Stourport Bridge is one of the district's most cherished structures, and these new lanterns honour that legacy while bringing our lighting standards up to date," said councillor Karl Perks, cabinet member with responsibility for highways and transport.

"This is a great example of how we can protect our heritage and meet modern-day expectations. We're grateful to residents for their patience - it will be worth it."

The work will start at the Astley end of the bridge and progress towards Stourport itself, the council said.

It is expected to take about a week to complete and the traffic lights will be restricted to off-peak hours between 09:30 and 15:30 BST each day.