Bridge repair will close Middlewich Branch

THE repair to Weaver's Bridge (18) on the Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union will close the canal until completed.

A planning application has been submitted by Canal & River Trust to repair the bridge that is cracked in two places up to its parapets in addition to cracks on the arch, Alfred Overton reports.

Listed structure

The work will be to 'stitch' repair the cracks with helical bars, with tie-bars and plates installed to restrain movement of the wing walls to prevent further cracking.  Planning permission is required as a listed structure.

The tarmac road over the bridge is also badly damaged that needs repair to the road that serves a number of properties along the lane, all caused by heavy vehicles using the bridge.

At this time it is not known how long the navigation will be closed.