A DESIGN for a new bridge straddling a river that cuts through the heart of a South Lakeland village has been unveiled.

More than 100 Staveley villagers visited a drop-in session at the Pavilion to see artist's impressions of what is set to replace the Old Gowan bridge, which had to be demolished after being badly damaged in last December's floods.

The new bridge, which will be a single-span instead of a two-span masonry arch, is expected to be more robust and able to withstand the extreme conditions which caused irreparable damage to the original bridge over the River Gowan, close to the Eagle & Child pub.

Since the bridge was demolished, Staveley has effectively been cut in half leading to a loss of trade and inconvenience to motorists visiting the village.

Cllr Stan Collins, who attended the drop-in-session, said: "I am pleased that we are moving forward and that other work required is progressing well with the contractors and engineers being open and helpful.

"We will have to make sure that the project keeps moving along as fast as possible but I am reassured by the way they are working."

The drop-in session also provided an opportunity for villagers to meet those who designed the bridge as well as representatives of Cumbria County Council.

Staveley resident Karen Tredwell said: “It’s going to be good for the village to get the bridge sorted out. We have been waiting, give us our bridge back.”

Lois Bond, who has lived in Staveley for nine years, said the new bridge would make it easier for her to do the school run as she currently has to take her car onto the A591 as she cannot drive straight through the village with the bridge being out.

“It will be good to be able to go across when the new bridge comes. I have been using my car for school runs even though I don't like to."

Kendal-based contractors Thomas Armstrong are is expected to arrive on site to begin work on the new bridge before the end of November.

A further drop-in session will be held once the final bridge design has been completed, which is expected to be in late December/early January.

The replacement bridge is expected to open in Easter 2017.