Kendal's Nether Bridge reopens after three-day repair closure

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 18:32 · Archive

Nether Bridge in Kendal has reopened after a three-day closure for wall repairs following damage in June.

Nether Bridge in Kendal reopened on 14 October after closing on 12 October for emergency repairs. The closure was necessary to rebuild a 10-metre section of the bridge's southern wall, which was damaged when a car struck it in June. Workers used a mix of original stonework recovered from the river and locally sourced stone to reconstruct the wall, finishing the work two days ahead of schedule. The bridge, a Scheduled Ancient Monument spanning the River Kent, required repairs using traditional lime mortar to preserve its character.

The three-day closure caused significant traffic disruption across Kendal. Queues were reported from Aynam Road to Oxenholme Road, with right turns at both Aynam Road and Parkside Road prohibited during the closure. Congestion extended to Burton Road as residents and commuters were forced to use alternative routes.

Local businesses reported considerable impact from the closure. Usman Saleem, director of Blue Star Taxis, described the situation as 'unmanageable', saying his drivers earned at least 25 per cent less each day. Pete Bland Sports on Kirkland reported falling customer numbers, with shop assistant Yolande Nelson noting she had 'definitely noticed fewer customers coming into the store'. Westmorland and Furness Council said the repairs had to be completed before river working restrictions began, as the next permitted working window would not be until summer 2025.

How it is being reported

• Bridge closure impact 'unmanageable', says businessKendal businesses say Nether Bridge's closure has resulted in fewer customers and reduced earnings.BBC Cumbria · 14 Oct, 18:00
• Nether Bridge set to reopen after three-day closure caused Kendal traffic chaosKendal’s historic Nether Bridge may reopen on October 14 after wall repairs caused traffic delays, with the Scheduled Ancient Monument spanning the River Kent.Westmorland Gazette · 14 Oct, 13:54

In this story: Kendal · Nether Bridge · River Kent · Westmorland and Furness Council · Usman Saleem · Pete Bland Sports · Yolande Nelson · Peter Thornton

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem