TWO bridges over the A591 will close later this week until further notice as a 'precautionary measure for public safety' due to structural concerns. 

An expert commissioned by the council identified structural concerns with Brigsteer and Underbarrow bridges and recommended closing them to allow for further assessment and monitoring. 

Highways boss for Westmorland and Furness Council Phil Greenup said: "A full closure will be implemented as a precautionary measure for public safety on both bridges, until further notice, to allow for detailed assessments."

The A591 will remain open and the council stressed that it is safe for road users to continue travelling on the route. 

The reinforced concrete half joint bridges date back to the 1970s. The bridges require regular detailed assessments carried out by an external consultant so they remain in line with national guidance. 

The council said that the issues found both bridges 'are not unique to Westmorland and Furness,' and that similar structures across the country will likely require repairing or replacement. 

Mr Greenup said: "We appreciate that these closures, even with the diversions, will cause inconvenience for residents, communities, and road users and we thank you in advance for your patience as we carry out these essential assessments.

"By acting on the findings of the specialist report and closing off access to both Brigsteer and Underbarrow bridges, the safety of the A591 will not be compromised.

"Throughout the closure period, the council will continue to monitor the condition of the bridges, and also the impact of the diversions on traffic in Kendal."

Throughout the closure that will be in place from 8.00am on Wednesday 12 June, all traffic including vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and emergency services will be required to follow the signed diversions that will be in place:

  • Underbarrow Bridge via the C5048, U853 Queens Road (Kendal),  A5284 Windermere Road (Kendal) , B5284, C5059 and C5048.
  • Brigsteer Road Bridge via C5062, U782, U583 Queens Road (Kendal), A5284 Windermere Road (Kendal) , B5284, C5059 and C5062.

The council is responsible for 1,075 bridges and structures across the patch.

More information on closure of Brigsteer and Underbarrow bridges can be found on the council website.