MP Calls For Temporary Bridge In Killington

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron has called on Cumbria Highways to agree to put in place a temporary bridge in Killington, to help relieve pressure on local businesses.

Five farms and several other local businesses are endangered by the continued closure of Hallbeck Bridge.

A group of local residents have sourced a temporary bridge to replace the damaged bridge, but this requires permission from Cumbria Highways in order to be installed.

However, Cumbria Highways are currently ruling out use of a temporary bridge, and are giving a timeframe of 12-18 months for the completion of the replacement bridge.

Tim said: "This is critical for local residents and businesses. The continued closure is cutting farmers off from their fields and businesses from their customers. Short trips to check livestock are now long detours - this is wasting time and money. At a time when local people are trying to fight back from the damage caused by the floods, it is essential that they are given the support they need. If this bridge remains closed for up to a year and a half, as currently planned, this will drive some businesses under. I'm calling on Cumbria Highways to work with local residents and business owners to find a solution to this problem."