Traffic restrictions to remain in place on Winsford Station Bridge

Traffic restrictions on Winsford Station Bridge will remain in place following the completion of initial site investigations into the condition of the structure.

Engineers are carrying out detailed assessments of the bridge and these will continue. However, based on the information available so far, the bridge cannot safely return to unrestricted two-way traffic.

One lane will remain open while the other lane continues to be closed, so one way only will continue in an eastbound direction towards Middlewich.

Recent engineering assessments have identified issues that mean traffic restrictions need to remain in place while further investigations and assessments are completed.

Engineers have confirmed the bridge is not at immediate risk, but the current restrictions are required to ensure it can continue to be used safely.

The Council recognises the impact the restrictions are having on residents, commuters and businesses, particularly those using the bridge to access and leave the industrial estate.

The Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, Councillor Karen Shore, said:

"We know these ongoing restrictions are inconvenient, particularly for businesses and commuters, but public safety must come first. The engineering advice is clear that it would not be safe to return the bridge to unrestricted two-way traffic at this stage.

"While the bridge is not at immediate risk, it must continue to operate under traffic restrictions while further assessments are completed. We are working hard to secure funding and progress the repairs needed to restore full use of the bridge."

Alongside the ongoing investigations, the Council is pursuing funding to support the repairs needed to restore unrestricted use of the bridge. A funding application has been submitted to the Department for Transport's Structures Fund.

Further engineering assessments will continue to help determine the most appropriate long-term solution for the bridge. The Council will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Pictured - Winsford Station Bridge.