Border Bridge Reopens with Weight Limit

A bridge spanning the border between Shropshire and Powys has resumed operation following repairs, though it now carries a weight limit of 7.5 tonnes. Both Shropshire Council and Powys County Council expressed that they were “acutely aware” of the challenges the new restrictions on Melverley Bridge would pose for agricultural communities in the area. Shropshire Council indicated that it is exploring, in collaboration with maintenance contractor Kier, the viability of undertaking additional repairs or pursuing the bridge’s replacement within an “accelerated timeframe.” The involved authorities are currently deliberating potential funding mechanisms required for the upcoming work. These deliberations are continuing “as repair and/or replacement solutions are developed,” according to the councils, following the recent completion of repairs to the bridge’s supporting piers. In an effort to mitigate additional inconvenience for agricultural communities, Powys County Council announced its decision to defer the implementation of a width restriction on the adjacent Llandrinio Bridge. This postponement will remain in effect until further work on Melverley Bridge is finalized and its weight restriction is lifted. Llandrinio Bridge, described as a narrow, listed structure, has sustained considerable damage from collisions and “continued use by large and heavy vehicles,” the council further noted. Initiatives to implement preventative measures against future damage are scheduled for a subsequent date.