Temporary bridge to reopen 'vital' County Durham route

The bridge will provide a temporary crossing while the council develops plans for a permanent replacement

A temporary crossing is to be installed above a bridge in County Durham which closed after inspectors identified "issues with its structural integrity".

Traffic and pedestrians were banned from Deerness Bridge, between Ushaw Moor and New Brancepeth, on 13 April.

Durham County Council is to install a replacement Bailey bridge so people can cross the river while a permanent solution is developed.

The council said the "vital route" is expected to open by the end of May.