A DATE for much-needed repairs to a bridge in Tetbury following a crash last year has been announced.

Repair work on Bath Bridge, which is situated on the A433 in Tetbury, is due to start on Monday, April 15.

A vehicle collided with the Grade II listed bridge on August 23 which caused significant damage to its parapet wall.

Since the crash the hole has been covered up and temporary traffic lights have been put in place.

Contractors initially started work on the bridge in December but stopped after discovering that the parapet had a significant lean.

Gloucestershire Highways told residents that because of the size and cost involved in resolving this issue, work couldn't be undertaken until the next financial year.

Some residents have raised concerns about the impact heavy vehicles are having on the historical bridge and about the growing vegetation surrounding it which often blocks drivers' vision. 

In a letter to the Standard, Tetbury resident Bill Shepard said: "Over 18 months ago, we alerted GCC about the leaning parapet and the extensive vegetation growth.

"After much prevarication, GCC agreed to a structural survey and surprisingly, the survey recommended a regular inspection of the parapet walls, because of the extensive lean. 

"It also recommended immediate removal of the vegetation. 

"So now we wait for a new financial year whilst the vegetation continues to thrive. 

"One tree, growing out of the buttress, is approaching 6 metres in height.

"I wonder how long it will take for GCC to realise that the bridge, built in 1775, was not designed for such heavy vehicle use and requires regular maintenance."

A spokesperson for Gloucestershire County Council said: “Work on Bath Bridge in Tetbury is scheduled for repair from April 15 to May 31, following a vehicle collision last year.

“During these repairs, the bridge will be reduced to one lane with temporary traffic lights in place.

"Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout, with the bridge staying open during the works.

“The bridge can accommodate heavy goods vehicles and there are no plans to add a weight restriction to the bridge.”