Barrow upon Trent road closed after 'major' crash makes bridge unsafe

The bridge has now closed

A Derbyshire road has been closed after a "major" crash made a bridge unsafe.

The bridge in Sinfin Lane, Barrow upon Trent, was closed in both directions following the incident shortly after 15:00 BST.

Derbyshire Police said pedestrian access and access to the canal is also currently unavailable.

The Canal and River Trust, which is responsible for the bridge, described the structure as a "wonderful piece of the area's heritage".

A spokesperson added: "Barrow Bridge crossing the Trent and Mersey Canal has been hit by a vehicle, believed to be a HGV, causing major damage to the brick parapet of the bridge.

"A temporary road closure is in place and, as the parapet is deemed unsafe, the canal underneath has been closed to boats between Swarkestone Lock and Stenson Lock. The towpath is also closed in this area.

"We're now assessing the damage, and the scale of repair needed, and will be working as quickly as we can to get the road, canal and towpath reopened as soon as possible.

"It's so upsetting that someone has caused such terrible damage to this wonderful piece of the area's heritage."

Motorists have been advised to find an alternative route.