THE cause of the partial collapse of an ancient bridge has been revealed as divers are deployed to look more closely at hidden damage.

The Grade I listed Powick Old Bridge in Worcester will remain closed to pedestrians and cyclists for the foreseeable future for safety reasons.

This is whilst investigations into the collapse and repair options continue. A boat crew was spotted on the Teme on Thursday performing checks on the structural integrity of the bridge with drivers set to be deployed today.

Meanwhile, heritage leaders including Daniel Daniels, chairman of the Battle of Worcester Society, Paul Harding of Discover History have also expressed their hope that the bridge, famous as the site of the first skirmish of the English Civil War, be repaired as soon as possible.

Initial investigations show that part of the supporting wingwall collapsed into the River Teme, resulting in loss of material and support for the main bridge section.

The collapse of the bridge, which is also recognised as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, is likely caused by recent flooding and a buildup of debris.

Councillor Mike Rouse, Worcestershire County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport said: “Our Structural Engineer has been on site with a drone, and together with scans, has gathered some good information to help identify the full extent of the issue.

”Over the next 24 hours, our Diving Team will also be out with SONAR equipment, this will assist us to explore stabilisation options.

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"Until we have conducted a full assessment and liaised with Historic England regarding the next steps, we are not yet able to offer a timescale for how long the bridge will remain closed. Plans for an alternative route for cyclists and pedestrians are being explored.

We recognise that this is a very popular walking and cycling route, but the bridge is just not safe to remain open.”

According to Historic England, the bridge was constructed before 1447 and was partially rebuilt during the 17th century. It is constructed from stone with brick and is approximately 60m long and up to 7m wide.

The bridge has a brick parapet approximately 1m high with chamfered stone coping except on the west where it is interrupted by a road.

A Historic England spokesperson said: “We are concerned about the partial collapse of Powick Bridge after recent storms. We are working with Worcestershire County Council on emergency repairs to make the bridge safe, whilst a scheme of permanent repair works is developed to safeguard this historically-important bridge into the future.”