Priti Patel MP on the damage to the Appleford Bridge, Great Braxted

I was concerned to hear of the extensive damage to Appleford Bridge, Great Braxted on Monday. The Bridge is on one of the main routes to the A12 for Tiptree Villagers and other local residents. I know that a great many HGVs also use the Bridge and will have to find alternative routes. I have been in regular contact with Essex County Council Highways since the damage occurred.

They have confirmed the following:

that they are aware of the damage and are investigating how it happened. There is an appeal for witnesses and/or anyone with dashcam footage to contact [email protected]
Due to the severity of the damage and the narrowness of the carriageway over the Bridge, the road has been closed on public safety grounds and a diversion route has been implemented.
They are endeavouring to undertake the repairs are soon as possible. The Bridge is Grade II listed and because of this they need to locate a source for suitable replacement bricks.
The latest news I have is that the provisional timetable is for repairs to begin on Thursday 25th August and that the work is likely to take 2-3 weeks, to allow for the Bridge to be re-opened.

I will continue to monitor the situation.

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