Repaired border bridge opens with restrictions

Councils are in discussions to consider how there could be unrestricted access

A bridge over the Shropshire-Powys border has reopened after repair work, but with a weight restriction of 7.5 tonnes.

Shropshire Council and Powys County Council said they were "acutely aware" of difficulties the restrictions on Melverley Bridge would create for local farmers.

The former stated it was investigating with maintenance contractor Kier the feasibility of repairing it further, or replacing the bridge in an "accelerated timeframe".

The authorities are discussing what funding arrangements may be needed for the necessary work.

These discussions were ongoing "as repair and/or replacement solutions are developed," they said, after the latest repairs to supporting piers were completed.

To minimise any further disruption to farming communities, Powys County Council said it had agreed to postpone bringing in a width restriction on nearby Llandrinio Bridge until further work at Melverley was completed and the weight restriction removed.

Llandrinio bridge was a narrow, listed structure that had suffered significant damage due to collisions and "continued use by large and heavy vehicles", it added.

Work to introduce measures to stop any further damage will take place at a later date.