Wiltshire canal bridge may be repaired in plans for solar park

An investigation found Whaddon Lane canal bridge was "at imminent risk of collapse"

Repairs to a bridge "at imminent risk of collapse" have been proposed as part of the construction of a solar park.

A temporary overbridge on Whaddon Lane, near Hilperton in Wiltshire, would be put in its place so building work at Whaddon Farm Solar Park could continue.

It follows an investigation commissioned by the applicant assessing whether the bridge could withstand the increased construction traffic.

Wiltshire Council has not yet given a date on when a decision is expected.

Permission was granted for the solar park in April 2022 and will see major development on agricultural fields west of Whaddon Farm, Local Democracy Reporting Service has said.

The application explained significant faults were identified on the bridge structure.

The bridge would be used by construction workers building nearby Whaddon Farm Solar Park

The investigation found that the existing wing walls on the canal bridge were "at imminent risk of collapse".

The application states: "A full road closure will be required during the construction and removal of the temporary bridge.

"A temporary closure of the canal and towpaths will be required when lifting the bridge into position.

"The public right of way to the south of the bridge will be temporarily diverted during the installation and removal of the bridge."