HERITAGE champions have welcomed plans to repair a medieval bridge after it suffered a partial collapse with work set to begin before the winter storms sweep in.
History experts are 'thrilled' after it was announced the first stage of the repair of Powick Old Bridge is to begin later this summer following the partial collapse at the end of January.
Famous for its role in both the first and last battles of the English Civil War (the Battle of Powick Bridge in 1642 and the Battle of Worcester in 1651), the scheduled monument is considered an integral part of the city's and county's history and heritage.
Repair work has been complicated by storms since the collapse which, at times, have caused the swollen River Teme to leave the archways submerged.
Driftwood has been pictured piled against the bridge during last winter's floods and a hole has emerged in the surface of the bridge.
Daniel Daniels, chairman of the Battle of Worcester Society, said: "The Battle of Worcester Society is thrilled that restoration work on Powick Bridge will finally commence.
"This project has received overwhelming public support, widespread backing from many historians, and endorsements from numerous organisations both in Worcester and beyond. It is crucial to remain focused on this endeavour to ensure its successful completion."
Paul Harding of Discover History said: "It's a step in the right direction to safeguard this valuable asset. I'm so glad the finger-pointing and blame game is a little quieter now.
"Post Election may also help improve things greatly. The repairs need to be done sensitively, and this may be a good chance to record any Archaeological features. We hope the weather will be kind."
A temporary ramp will be installed from the footway into the river channel, and a working platform created on the upstream side of the river, Worcestershire County Council has confirmed.
The purpose of the working platform is to safeguard the collapsed area of the wingwall from further damage, and to allow the arch and abutment to be properly inspected.
Recognising the important historic nature and originality of the structure, it will also protect the damaged section from losing more material, and add support to the whole structure before the main repairs begin.
The temporary platform will prevent water from entering the arch so that work can take place, and if the river does flood water will be diverted over the top of the platform.
This approach will also lead to a large proportion of the original stonework being reclaimed from the river bed.
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The wing wall will need to be completely taken down as part of the repair process. However, the rebuild will use as much of the initial stone and brick as possible.
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