TOWN Hall chiefs at Warrington are being urged to buy a canal bridge which collapsed, cutting off a route to an industrial estate.
The Marsh House Bridge over the St Helens Canal at Fiddler’s Ferry can be purchased for a nominal amount.
But the council will face the cost of replacing the damaged bridge – at an estimated cost of £40,000 if a second-hand Bailey-type bridge is used.
This would provide a temporary solution to problems caused by the bridge collapse, which occurred last month as a lorry carrying a 20-tonne load was crossing it.
A permanent solution involving a lifting bridge – essential if the council’s long term aim of restoring navigation along the canal is to be achieved – could be much more costly and is dependent on a successful bid to the Coastal communities Fund, the result of which will be known in December.
The council has identified funds in the capital programme to acquire and reinstate the bridge to the value of £225,000
The bridge was originally owned by a private company, Food Securities Ltd, which went into liquidation in 1981.
As a result, ownership of the bridge passed to the Duchy of Lancaster as “owner of last resort.” As such, the Duchy has ownership of the bridge but no liability to repair or maintain it. They are willing to transfer it to the council for a nominal price.
Officers are recommended the council purchase the bridge and then determine the most appropriate temporary and long term options for its future. They point out that if the council does not buy, someone else might.
Upgrading the bridge would support the “Warrington Means Business” programme, support the potential growth of leisure activity and business in the area and provide infrastructure to support growth.
The bridge is also seen as an important part of the infrastructure required to deliver the Sankey Canal Restoration project.
The council has an interest in the canal restoration project and also owns the Fiddelers Ferry Yacht Haven so it requires the bridge for continued access.
A number of businesses on the south side of the canal are facing difficulties as a result of the bridge collapse.
TOWN Hall chiefs at Warrington are being urged to buy a canal bridge
which collapsed, cutting off a route to an industrial estate.
Council to buy collapsed bridge
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
4 Comments
Sounds like it’s time for Lizzy Windsor to flash the cash – amazing how many things owned by the crown ( remember Windsor Castle) become somebody else’s problem when costs to repair etc. are involved.
The Council should argue it should be paid to take over responsibility and liability for the bridge, such as it is, not pay good money – as a “nominal amount” – for the remaining couple of rusting RSJs that most likely have not been maintained for years.
Nick’s right the Duchy of Lancaster as “owner of last resort” should make some contribution at least towards the provision of an interim bridge so the firms dependant on it can continue in business.
The owner of last resort seems to have all the perks but no responsibilities.
Why are the insurers (or owners) of the overweight lorry which destroyed it not being chased for the cost of reinstatement?
As it’s the queen’s bridge – it could mean the tower for them …..:-)