Burnham-On-Sea’s MP, David Heathcoat-Amory, has branded the decision to close a busy railway bridge in the heart of Highbridge for three years as ‘outrageous’ and vowed to fight the decision.
Burnham-On-Sea.com was first to report last week that the busy Walrow bridge next to Highbridge railway station (pictured) was to close to traffic for emergency repairs and may not re-open for three years until Network Rail completes strengthening works.
Mr Heathcoat-Amory told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “This is clearly outrageous. The bridge is part of a key artery road for the town. It makes no sense to try and develop Highbridge if its lifeblood is cut off.”
“I will take this up with Network Rail and will ask them to make it a priority. I feel the County Council should have been tougher here.”
Last week, Dennis Herniman, Highway Service Manager for Somerset County Council, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “In the interest of safety to road and rail users Somerset County Council, as Highway Authority, have ordered an emergency road closure of the B3139 at Walrow Railway Bridge. The closure will remain until Network Rail carry out strengthening works to the bridge in the years 2010 to 2011 and will be reviewed thereafter.”
He added that pedestrian and cycle use would be maintained and that a diversion will be in place through Bennett Road, Isleport roundabout and the A38.
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Your opinions on the bridge closure
Busy Highbridge road bridge to shut for three years
