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Priory Mill Bridge in Lechlade set to re-open

Published
Gloucestershire County Council is completing the final stage of repairs to the historic bridge over the River Leach.

In August 2024 Priory Mill Bridge was struck by a large vehicle causing substantial damage to the bridge parapet. For safety reasons the road was closed and a repair operation began in consultation with the Environment Agency and Cotswold District Council. Unfortunately, the bridge was struck by a second vehicle in December 2024, causing further damage.

Work to restore the grade-II listed structure has included the deconstruction and rebuilding of approximately 10 metres of historic parapet wall. The council recovered and reused existing stone along with lime mortar, a key factor in the conservation of heritage structures. Working with lime mortar comes with its own challenges, including a sensitivity to rain, so temporary shelters were constructed on site to enable the work to continue throughout wet weather.

Due to the narrow width of the bridge and the space required for construction crews, a full road closure has been required, but the council have been working as swiftly as possible to re-open the road to all traffic by a target date of mid-March 2025. Repairs to the southern parapet (struck in August 2024) are now complete. Repairs to the northern parapet (struck in December 2024) have now begun and are expected to be completed by the end of February. 

Gloucestershire County Council Director of Transport and Highways Jason Humm said: "I’m very pleased to report our repair work is expected to finish ahead of schedule. We appreciate the impact of the road closure on residents and businesses and would like to thank them for their patience. Conditions have been challenging due to the historic nature of the bridge, requiring specialist repairs, and the impact of a second vehicle collision during our rebuilding efforts. However, we’re working as swiftly as possible and look forward to re-opening the road at the end of this month."

Please note, the exact date and time of the road re-opening is to be determined. Further details and updates will be provided on the council’s dedicated web page.