Lydford Bridge – update

Nine meters of the granite block parapet were removed from the parapet when it was struck by a car.

The closure of Lydford Bridge from late July has caused a deal of problems. As we write in mid August the ambition is to have the roadway open by early September, although the actual date of reopening is dependant upon a number of factors as yet undefined. Pressure is being maintained by the parish council as well as borough and county Councillors to ensure that traffic can begin using the bridge again as soon as is reasonably possible.

Lydford Bridge is a grade II listed structure of historical importance. This places a deal of limitations on how it might be repaired, the materials that can be used and the permissions required. Some of the blocks from the parapet were damaged in the fall to the bottom of the Gorge. These have had to be dressed again and some stone replaced from stores.

Repairing the bridge requires that masons have access to both sides of the parapet as they work. It is not possible to carry out the work required otherwise. Creating a platform upon which they can work safely whilst suspended some 60 feet above the Gorge below has required a great deal of scaffolding to cantilever the platform. It is the presence of this key structure which has required that the bridge be closed. Removal of the scaffolding after completing the repairs is likely to take several days.

Councillors have written to the Engineer leading the repairs to thank them for the speed with which they have responded to the damage caused to the bridge by the collision. From initial appraisal of the safety of the carriageway to completing the necessary repairs in required fashion in a little over a calendar month is commendable.

The parapet has been almost completely repaired, however the last blocks need to be found from council stock as the originals were too badly damaged to be re-used.