County Council exploring all options to provide long-term future for Lydbrook Bridge

Built in 1875, Lydbrook Bridge is an important historic structure. It is currently closed due to safety concerns linked to the temporary scaffolding that provides pedestrian access. The bridge is jointly owned by Gloucestershire County Council and Herefordshire Council, and the temporary scaffolding has been in place since 2016. 

That scaffolding has now reached the end of its safe working life and needs replacing. Due to the complex and historic nature of the bridge, alongside the need to keep the public safe at height, the cost of installing new scaffolding for a further five years is estimated at an eye watering £600,000. This would only offer a short-term fix, would not address the underlying structural issues, and would not extend the bridge’s lifespan – making it a poor use of public money. 

Instead, Gloucestershire County Council is focused on securing a long-term, sustainable solution that will protect the bridge and allow it to be safely used for many years to come.

For safety reasons, the bridge will need to remain closed until further notice. The existing scaffolding will be removed to prevent the risk of falling scaffold debris and to protect river users below while the bridge is closed.

The council is working hard with partners to secure the funding needed to deliver a permanent solution that balances safety, heritage and value for money.

Initial plans would be to retain the current structure into the future. However, a new bridge is an option that may be considered to provide a more sustainable structure in keeping with the surrounding area.

Cllr Joe Harris, Cabinet Member for Highways at Gloucestershire County Council, said “We understand the frustration of the community with the Lydbrook Bridge closure and we’re sorry for the inconvenience this causes. 

“Working closely with Herefordshire Council, we are determined to find a long-term solution that represents good value for residents while protecting this much-loved historic bridge and its setting. 

“Safety must always come first, but we are committed to doing everything we can to secure a lasting future for Lydbrook Bridge and will continue to explore all available funding opportunities to make that happen.”