Bridge near to partially collapsed Old Courthouse to fully reopen

The Cocker Bridge has been affected since October.

Author: Matt MaddrenPublished 9th Jul 2024
Last updated 9th Jul 2024

Cumberland Council’s highways team is set to reopen the Cocker Bridge in Cockermouth this Friday (12 July).

Following a further structural assessment, a new safeguard will be put in place that will not only allow the bridge to reopen to two-way traffic but also remain protected from the partially collapsed Old Courthouse building.

An alterative screening protection will be put in place on Friday 12 July and the existing scaffold on the bridge will be removed.

Some periods of temporary closure of the road may be required, at short notice, to dismantle the existing screen, although the council will endeavour to keep any disruption to the minimum.

The building, which partially collapsed last year, continues to be standing however any proposed works are impacted by:

The site is land locked, access to allow any works to be undertaken is challenging.

The building is Grade II listed and any further works is required to be minimal to protect the fabric of the historic building.

A Cumberland Council spokesperson said:

“Our officers continue to work with all the various partners and agencies involved in this issue.

“We are having to follow a complex legal process that involves the support of various council teams and external partners.

“Discussions are ongoing with the owner of the property.

“We have however taken steps to reopen the bridge to two-way traffic.”

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