Clun Bridge now closed for repairs

A historic bridge in a south Shropshire town is closed from today for up to three weeks while engineers tackle its frost-damaged masonry.

Highways chiefs said safety fears had forced them to close the 15th century Clun Bridge, which carries the A488 over the River Clun in Clun.

Shropshire Council said parts of the stone masonry were "bulging heavily" due to damage thought to have been triggered during the last two cold winters.

Through traffic is being diverted away from Clun, along the A4113 and B4385 via Leintwardine, Hoptonheath, Purslow and Lydbury North.

A local diversion is signposted through Bicton and Whitcott Evan.

Martin Taylor-Smith, council cabinet member for transport and IT, said: "It is appreciated that the closure of the bridge to traffic will cause significant inconvenience and every reasonable effort will be made to reopen it as soon as possible.

"This will include the contractor working a seven-day week during the closure period."

Repairs will involve taking down and rebuilding parts of two of the bridge's stone pillars.

Clun and Chapel Lawn Parish Council vice-chairman Malcolm Smith said: "It should be okay for people here, as we know ways of getting around using back streets.

"Some people from further away may be in a bit of quandary but it will be well signposted."