Lydbrook Bridge

Gloucestershire County Council is exploring all options to secure a sustainable, long‑term future for Lydbrook Bridge in the Forest of Dean, ensuring the best possible value for local residents while prioritising safety and heritage.

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

That temporary scaffolding has now reached the end of its safe working life and requires replacement. Due to the historic and complex nature of the bridge, and the need to safely manage work at height, the cost of installing replacement scaffolding for a further five years is estimated to be around £600,000. This would only provide a short‑term solution, would not address the underlying structural issues, and would not extend the lifespan of the bridge, meaning it would not represent good value for public money.

For this reason, the council is focusing on securing a long‑term, sustainable solution that will protect the bridge and enable it to be safely used for many years to come.

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

The council is working closely with partners to secure funding for a permanent solution that balances safety, heritage and value for money. Current early considerations include retaining the existing structure into the future; however, the option of a new bridge may also be explored if it offers a more sustainable long‑term solution that is sympathetic to 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.”

Further updates will be shared as work progresses.