Petition urges prompt repair of historic Ditchford Bridge

A petition advocates for the expedited repair of Ditchford Bridge in Rushden, Northamptonshire, a Grade II listed structure. The bridge has been closed to traffic since August, following an incident involving a combine harvester. A road closure notice issued by the council remains in effect until August 2025. Paige Rose, the local resident who initiated the petition, described the bridge as “crucial infrastructure” for the community and “urged” the local authority to “expedite the repair.” In response, a spokesman for North Northamptonshire Council stated that the council was “working hard” to advance the necessary work. Ms. Rose further noted that the closure “affects our daily commute, local businesses, and emergency services.” Ditchford Bridge, believed to have been constructed in 1330, holds the designation of a “scheduled monument,” a classification reserved for historic buildings deemed to be of national importance. The council implemented a year-long road closure notice, valid until 15 August 2025, to allow highways inspectors to thoroughly assess the extent of the damage. Matt Binley, a Conservative councillor responsible for highways and travels, explained the procedural requirements: “Before any repairs can start, scheduled monument consent is required from Historic England. “When this is in place an Environment Agency permit is then needed to erect a scaffold adjacent to the damaged area to repair and rebuild the post and rail and the parapet.” He added, “It is expected it will take about one year to complete the work and reopen the road.” Historic England confirmed that the responsibility for undertaking the necessary repairs rests with the local authority.