Bridge failure in Pickmere sees road closed 'until further notice'

Cheshire East Council closed the bridge over Waterless Brook on the B5391, Pickmere Lane, on Friday, January 10, after part of the carriageway showed signs of collapse.

On Wednesday, January 15, the council released pictures of what it called a ‘structural failure’, showing large cracks in the wall on the carriageway, as well as whole courses of bricks making up the supporting arch coming loose.

The current order for the road closure last for 21 days from January 10, though Cheshire East said it will go on ‘until further notice’.

The council anticipates the necessary work will take place between Friday, January 10, and  Tuesday, February 28. 

A diversion route is in place via Pickmere Lane, Church Street, Hall Lane, Manchester Road, Chester Road, Budworth Road.

A spokesman for Cheshire East Council said: “An emergency road closure remains in place on B5391, Pickmere Lane.  

Brickwork forming the bridge's supporting arch is in a poor state of repair (Image: Cheshire East Council)

“This is due to a structural failure on the arch of the bridge over Waterless Brook.

“The road will remain closed until further notice.

“Thank you for your patience.”