MP calls on Council to prevent future damage to Crooklands Bridge

3.00.00pm GMT Wed 5th Mar 2008

Local MP Tim Farron has welcomed the news that British Waterways will be footing the bill for the repairs to Crooklands Bridge, but is urging the County Council's highways department to take steps to ensure that further damage is not done. The Bridge is part of a well used route between the A65 and the Kent Estuary and as the tourist season approaches is likely to see an increased volume of traffic.

Mr Farron has previously written to Cumbria County Council urging them put protective measures in place, and now that British Waterways have committed to carrying out the repairs, this is all the more urgent.

Tim Farron said:

"I am delighted that British Waterways have agreed to provide funding for the repairs, and it is high time the county council stumped up the cash for some protective measures in addition to the minor changes to road markings that are being proposed.

"My main concern is that the Bridge is already well used and the traffic is only going to increase as summer begins. If no protective measures are put in place then damage is very likely to occur and we'll be back to square one."