Width restriction introduced on historic bridge to protect it and prevent closure

Chetwynd Bridge

A width restriction will be introduced on an historic Staffordshire bridge to prevent heavy goods vehicles accessing it and help to preserve it for future generations.

Whilst a weight limit was introduced on Chetwynd Bridge near Alrewas to protect the 19th century structure, many drivers are ignoring the signs which is leading its further deterioration. Without the new restrictions the bridge would need to close permanently to all traffic.

The bridge is 200 years old and Grade II Listed. It has undergone a full restoration after its ironwork structure had started to deteriorate. A weight restriction of 7.5 tonnes had to be introduced to prevent more damage to iron bearings on the bridge.

Now a width restriction of 2.3 metres (7ft 6ins) is needed to stop heavier vehicles from accessing the bridge. Three variable message signs will alert drivers to the new restriction. There will be two either side of the bridge and one for vehicles coming out of Barley Green Lane.

Signs will be installed next week beginning July 24, and restriction barriers the following week beginning July 31.

Staffordshire County Council is designing a new bypass road bridge to remove traffic off Chetwynd Bridge. This will become a pedestrian and cycleway bridge.

Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport David Williams said:

Chetwynd Bridge is listed and a historic asset to people in Staffordshire and neighbouring Derbyshire. It has undergone a full and sympathetic restoration to ensure it is safe to use and in keeping with its historic status.

Unfortunately, we had to introduce the weight limit to prevent further deterioration of the bridge. We now need to bring in the width restriction as far too many heavy vehicles are ignoring the restriction signs. Without further action we would need to close the bridge to all traffic, which nobody wants.

We do of course understand this will place an inconvenience on local residents and businesses, but we cannot compromise safety. We have let businesses, partner organisations and communities know about the new restriction.

In the longer term, the county council is planning to remove all traffic from Chetwynd Bridge and put it onto the new bypass road bridge.

This will transform Chetwynd Bridge into a cycle and pedestrian route and preserve it for future generations.”