4:53pm Friday 18th May 2012
CULMSTOCK Bridge has been closed for emergency repairs after being struck by a large vehicle yesterday.
The centre span of the historic Grade 2 listed bridge has suffered what Devon County Council official describe as "severe structural damage" after being hit by the vehicle.
This has left an eight-metre section of the parapet in an unstable position.
The parapet is at the point of collapse and temporary barriers are being installed this afternoon in order to keep members of the public clear of the damage, and to enable the bridge to remain open to pedestrians.
The protective fencing will not leave enough room for vehicles to pass and so the bridge has been closed to traffic.
Scaffolding will be erected tomorrow (May 19) and repairs will start on Monday (May 21).
It is hoped that the bridge will re-open by Saturday, May 26.
A diversion will be signed via Craddock, Uffculme, Willand and the A38.
If anyone has any information about the vehicle involved in the collision with the bridge, please contact Devon County Council’s bridges team on 01392- 383389.
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