Work starts on historic bridge repairs after collapse

Work has started on repairs to a medieval Worcestershire bridge, more than two-and-a-half years after it suffered a partial collapse.

Powick Old Bridge in Worcester has been closed since parts of it were washed away in floods in January 2024.

Worcestershire County Council said "advanced work" was taking place, including excavating behind the damaged section of the bridge, before a permanent repair programme starts in the spring.

A spokesperson said: "Powick Old Bridge is one of Worcestershire's most significant heritage assets, and we are committed to ensuring its careful and sensitive restoration."

The bridge was built before 1447, with the first and last battles of the English Civil War taking place around the area.

Last year, councillors agreed to earmark £5m towards repairing the Grade I listed structure, in the hope it could become more of a tourist attraction.

The council said the advanced site work would last six weeks, which would allow engineers to better understand its condition.

All the activity will take place under an archaeological watching brief with the approval of Historic England.

Bosses are aiming to get the bridge - which was popular with cyclists and walkers prior to the collapse - reopened in 2028.

The council spokesman added: "These early works will give our contractors the head start they need, while ensuring every stage is carried out with full archaeological oversight and in line with Historic England's requirements."

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