Farron Calls For Urgent Action For Kendal Bridge

Tim Farron MP has this evening called for urgent action to reopen Victoria Bridge in Kendal, following its closure due to safety concerns.

The bridge has this evening been partially closed due to structural concerns. Although the bridge was initially declared safe following a safety inspection by Cumbria County Council engineers, concerns have since been raised due to the fast flowing water which has undermined the bridge since the floods first hit.

The bridge will be closed to west-bound traffic, which will now be diverted over Stramongate Bridge, whilst it will remain open to east-bound traffic, albeit on the opposite side of the road.

In a letter to the Department for Transport, Tim has called for engineers check the structural integrity of the bridge, such that any requisite work may be carried out and the bridge reopened as soon as possible.

Tim said: "This bridge is of crucial importance to the circulation of traffic in Kendal, and particularly for traffic heading into the town centre.

"It is essential that any work is carried out quickly and efficiently, to minimise disruption to residents and local businesses that are struggling to recover from the aftermath of the floods.

"Local businesses have shown admirable resolve in reopening and continuing to trade after the floods; the authorities must also pay their part in supporting these efforts."