A COMMUNITY is 'devastated' after it was announced a bridge closure is expected to continue for years.

Rigmaden Bridge, near Kirkby Lonsdale, could be closed for two years for repairs, which are estimated to cost £2million.

The bridge buttress on the west bank suffered severe damage during storm Desmond in December 2015 and it was closed for some time for repairs.

But in an inspection and structural assessment in December 2021 revealed significant defects in the structure, making it unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians.

Read more: Bridge deemed 'unsafe' will remain closed and could cost £2million to repair

Cumbria County Council confirmed the bridge’s closure would continue.

Chair of Mansergh Parish Meeting, Bert Metcalfe, said the closure had left the Mansergh community ‘devastated’.

“This came as a great shock to locals and commuters alike as it is a very busy well used bridge,” he said.

“With the prospect of the highways department having no money and having to go cap in hand to local charities to raise the necessary finance needed, £2million and then taking minimum of two years to get it repaired which seems a bit over the top.

“The local community is quite devastated at the prospect as this route is the quickest way for emergency services like fire and ambulance to gain access.”

Read more: Residents' concerns at two-year bridge closure for £2million repair

Cllr Keith Little, Cumbria County Council cabinet member for highways and transport, said the council is considering ways to improve traffic management during the closure.

 “Our priority is always the safety of the public, contractors and our staff as we work to maintain and ensure the standards of our roads and bridges,” he said.

“Unfortunately, due to the significant structural defects of the bridge, the bridge will remain closed until we can obtain funding to implement the improvements, and we will now consider ways to improve traffic management during this extended closure.

“Our sincere thanks go out to the local community for their patience and understanding during this prolonged closure.”