Historic bridge reopens after repairs completed

A 17th Century bridge in Devon has reopened to traffic after emergency repairs were carried out for the second time this year.

Denham Bridge, near Bere Alston, was shut to repair a three-metre section of the parapet that was damaged by a vehicle on 18 April.

It was the second closure of the Grade II-listed bridge this year after it was also damaged by traffic in January.

Devon County Council (DCC) met with residents earlier this week to discuss what else could be done to better protect the bridge from careless driving.

Protective concrete blocks, installed on one approach to the bridge, have been re-positioned to guide large vehicles to take a wider approach.

Work was completed two weeks ahead of schedule, DCC said.

The authority also applied for an eight-metre maximum length restriction, which is due to come into force in the coming days.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, cabinet member for highway management, said discussions with residents had been productive.

"Our officers held an extremely positive meeting with the local community to discuss the protection of the bridge and residents were supportive of what’s being done," he said.

"Everyone is in agreement how precious Denham Bridge is and we share the same aim in wanting to do everything possible to protect it."

DCC is still appealing for information on the vehicle which damaged the structure in April.

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