THE council has been criticised for 'dragging its feet' over plans to build a vital bridge in Northwich.

Lee Siddall, who has been compaigning for a new bridge for several years, now sits on the town council.

With news that the bridge is to close overnight at the end of April to allow for 'essential works' to take place, Cllr Siddall has said it is a further reminder the bridge is no longer fit for purpose.

"I'm really disappointed with the lack of information and communication from Cheshire West and Chester regarding this bridge at present," he said. 

"In 2020 I campaigned for a weight restriction on this bridge and also wrote to Grant Shapps explaining the need for a new bridge.

"During my 24-hour bridge campaign I asked for Mike Amesbury and Esther McVey to work together on resolving this long-standing issue, which they both have now agreed to do and work together on this but at the moment it’s in CWAC's hands to come up with the plans and submit an application to the government levelling up fund."

Cllr Siddall went on to say the town itself was at risk of losing its history, with the bridge having to deal with more and more traffic.

"It's clear by the continuous repairs that this Grade II listed bridge can't handle the amount of traffic it is seeing at present and will undoubtedly deteriorate without an immediate weight restriction as more building work is planned," he added.

"We need to do what we can to protect our heritage in Northwich otherwise it will just become another generic town with lots of eroded history.

"I feel the frustration that the people in Barnton must feel with Soot Hill taking so long to repair and exacerbate the traffic problems.

"It seems they (CWAC) are dragging their feet or just keeping us in the dark regarding where they are up to with plans for a new bridge or where they are up to in apply for money from the government levelling up funds."

Cheshire West and Chester have been approached for a comment.