World-first vehicle to inspect flood damaged bridges unveiled in Cumbria

A world-first vehicle built to inspect flood damaged bridges has been unveiled in Cumbria today, which could see communities affected by heavy rainfall reconnected more quickly.

The BridgeCat uses sonar and an underwater camera to provide detailed information about bridges which could have sustained damage.

It has been developed by the Department for Transport, Cumbria County Council and Gaist Solutions.

Such technology will allow bridges to be re-opened more quickly, improve flooding resilience and help to prevent isolation between rural areas.

It's an invention which would be particularly useful in the Border region - during the winter storms two years ago nearly 800 bridges in Cumbria alone were affected.

Roads Minister Jesse Norman attended the unveiling at Salterwath Bridge near Kendal:

The Leader of Cumbria County Council commented: