THE FIRST stage of repairs to the historic Powick Old Bridge is set to begin next week.

Construction teams will begin work towards creating a platform on the upstream side of the river from Monday (July 29).

The platform will safeguard the collapsed area from further damage and allow crews to properly inspect the arch and abutment while protecting the damaged section from losing more material to the river.

Marc Bayliss, Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member with responsibility for highways and transport, said: "I'm delighted that the first phase of repair work is about to start on Powick Old Bridge.

"Hopefully the installation of the temporary platform will reassure people that we are working hard to reinstate the bridge to its former glory."

The temporary works will be followed by a second phase to permanently reconstruct the damaged section in 2025.

It, however, cannot be designed until the damaged section has been inspected.

Cllr Bayliss added: "We are working alongside partners, including the Environment Agency and Historic England, to ensure we are able to repair the bridge in a way that does not compromise the look of the structure.

"There isn't a quick fix, this restoration will take time and patience to ensure that all work is carried out with the consideration that such an important bridge deserves.

The bridge first closed after partially collapsing when fierce storms battered the City in January before a large hole opened up in the middle of the bridge in June.

First constructed in 1447, the bridge was rebuilt in the 17th century and is famously recognised as the location of the opening battle of the English Civil War in 1642.

Ahead of the start of work, the County Council has confirmed the complete closure of the parking area next to Hams Way Bridge to allow the team to establish an access route from the parking area to the bridge. 

The pedestrian walkway for Hams Way Bridge is also being diverted.