A 19th Century bridge in North Yorkshire has been closed to traffic and pedestrians after being struck by a lorry, causing “severe damage” to its decorative masonry arches.
Large sections of masonry had fallen due to the impact of the lorry in the incident which happened on Thursday, according to North Yorkshire Council.
Engineers had confirmed the bridge arch was too unstable for temporary repairs to be carried out to allow the road to be reopened, a council spokesperson said.
Council leader Carl Les said more updates about the bridge, which was originally built in 1830 and which connects Middleham and Leyburn, would be provided “as work progresses”.
The bridge closure comes ahead of the fourth stage of the Tour of Britain cycle race which is due to finish in Leyburn, near Middleham, on Saturday.
The event will take place as planned, but spectators have been advised to allow extra time for their journeys and follow the signed diversion routes.
