By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Plans to repair a bridge along the A40 in Cheltenham have been given the go-ahead amid concerns it will lead to “absolute chaos” unless done during school holidays.
The north headwall and wings of the grade II-listed Spring Bridge on London Road in Charlton Kings collapsed in May last year.
The east/Oxford bound lane of the carriageway has been closed and the road is now managed by two-way temporary traffic lights.
Gloucestershire County Council proposes to remove the remaining defective and unstable masonry which has been caused by water ingress and damage within the structure.
The plans include improvements to the drainage across the structure to resolve road flooding which they believe contributed to the structure collapsing.
The scope of amelioration works will address the inherent defects and reinstate the character and appearance of the listed building, according to the County Council.
To complete the works, a full road closure of the A40 will need to be implemented and be in place for a prolonged period whilst the reconstruction is undertaken, with a diversion route to be determined by others.
Councillor Jan Foster (G, Prestbury) asked during the planning committee meeting on July 17 about blockages of drains and gulleys by debris and leaves from surrounding trees on the upstream side of the bridge which goes over the River Chelt.
“I wondered whether with this application that was going to be taken care of?”
Head of planning Chris Gomm said there would be a general upgrade of the drainage.
“They will be putting in upgraded services when that top carriageway is constructed and the drainage,” he said.
“There should be a reduced likelihood of that happening.”
Councillor Glenn Andrews (LD, Lansdown) asked if the works could be scheduled during the school holidays “because the A40 is going to be an absolute nightmare”.
“I suspect they will do that anyway.”
Mr Gomm said that was outside of the scope of the planning application and not something that could be conditioned.
“It’s not clear how long these works are going to take,” he said.
“They are quite substantial works and they have said the road will be closed when they are underway. It’s really for the County Council to put a work programme together which minimises disruption.”
Councillor Tony Oliver (LD, Warden) said it is already causing traffic disruption on the A40 over the last year.
“I’m happy to approve it and I want them to get on and get it done.”
And Cllr Simon Wheeler (LD, Hesters Way) said the work needs to be done. “We can’t leave it as it is.”
Councillors voted unanimously to approve the plans.