Calls to repair and reopen 'appalling' canal bridge

Residents are calling for urgent repair work to be carried out on a canal bridge which is in an "appalling" state.

Lower Hempsted Bridge in Gloucestershire provides pedestrian access over the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal but the tarmac on the structure is wearing away and exposing the wooden foundations. It is currently closed for safety reasons.

The Hempsted Residents Association has been urging the Canal and River Trust and Gloucestershire County Council to take action and repair the bridge, but they said no work has been done yet.

In a statement, the Canal and River Trust said it has approached the county council to discuss the repairs required.