A BRIDGE south of Killington village, near Sedbergh, has had to suddenly close following an inspection.
Aikrigg Bridge, on the C5079, is shut to all traffic because the structure is at high risk of collapsing.
A spokesperson from Cumbria County Council said: "We have unfortunately had to close it to all traffic immediately, because of the significant undermining of the structure and associated settlement and distress in the arch barrel.
"There are indications that, if we allowed members of the public to continue to use the bridge, there could be a risk of collapse.
We have immediately commenced the process of appointing a specialist contractor to implement emergency repairs, so that the bridge can be reopened as soon as possible.
"We recognise that the bridge closure will cause local disruption and have an impact on residents and businesses. We hope that you appreciate this work is being undertaken as a matter of urgency and would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused."
They added that at this stage it was not possible to accurately estimate for how long the bridge would be closed off for.
Works should be done within six weeks.
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