We’re considering all options to protect Denham Bridge, near Bere Alston, from any future damage.
The Grade II Listed bridge has been closed since it was struck by a tractor and trailer on the evening of Thursday 18 April, damaging around three metres of parapet.
Due to the deep gorge below, a specialist cantilever scaffold has to be erected in the carriageway in order to carry out the repairs. It’s a time consuming operation in itself to assemble and remove the scaffold but this is scheduled to start on Monday, which is the first available date of the contractor.
It’s hoped work will be completed and the road re-opened by the end of May.
This latest closure follows similar damage to the structure in January. After that incident, we installed Legato concrete blocks on one approach to the bridge to force vehicles to take a wider entry onto the bridge, but even they have been struck.
Denham Bridge is already protected by a max width limit of 6’ 6” (2 metres) which is signed in advance of the bridge to allow larger vehicles the opportunity to turn around.
We’re investigating other measures, but the setting and listed nature of the structure means there is no quick-fix solution.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said:
“We share everyone’s frustration at the damage to Denham Bridge so soon after the previous repair. It’s not just the financial cost (the last incident cost around £26,600 to repair) but also the impact that brings to local communities and businesses. However the closure is necessary for public safety.
“We are exploring the installation of physical barriers but certainly on the eastern approach there would be nowhere for a larger vehicle to turn – this creates the potential to trap a vehicle at the bridge with no means of escape. A CCTV camera on a pole is also being considered but concerns have been expressed about this within the setting of this listed bridge. However we will continue to explore all options.”
Councillor Philip Sanders, County Councillor for Yelverton Rural, said:
“Following an impromptu meeting with a group of residents this morning it is clear that the local population are extremely frustrated that the bridge is closed again and following the previous damage they would like the issue of future protection of the structure to be adequately addressed.
“The villagers are requesting a face to face meeting with those responsible for developing plans for future protection so that all ideas can be shared and the locals are aware of what is happening. In response to this I have committed to trying to facilitate such a meeting at the earliest opportunity.”
Devon County Council is appealing for information on the latest vehicle to have damaged the structure. Anyone who witnessed the incident and is able to provide details of the vehicle is asked to please contact Devon’s Customer Service Centre on 0345 155 1004.