Westmorland and Furness Council have secured permission to restore the structurally compromised Rigmaden Bridge in Kirby Lonsdale.

The Listed Building consent, issued by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, greenlights the council to carry out strengthening works.

Deemed unsafe for both vehicles and pedestrians following an inspection in December 2021, the bridge has been closed since then.

Councillor Peter Thornton, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Assets said: “Obtaining Listed Building Consent is a positive step toward restoring Rigmaden Bridge, a key part of our highways network that connects communities surrounding Kirkby Lonsdale.

“Working collaboratively with Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has been integral in achieving this, and we will continue to do so as our team develops a feasible construction plan and funding options to deliver a more resilient bridge.

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

Moving forward, the team is set to outline a construction plan and calculate the costs tied to delivering the scheme.

Rigmaden Bridge will stay closed to ensure public safety until restoration works are complete.