1800s bridge destroyed by Storm Desmond reopens after near £1m repairs

An historic bridge that was severely damaged during Storm Desmond has officially reopened after undergoing nearly £1 million worth of repairs.

Brougham Old Bridge near Penrith was originally built in 1811. It became so badly damaged during the 2015 storm that residents feared it would completely collapse.

Following extensive repairs, the English Heritage listed bridge was officially opened this morning by Cumbria County Council Chairman John Bell.

The first stage of works began in 2016 to secure the main structure of the bridge and make it safe for further works.

The final stage began in August this year, where the bridge's main arch was reconstructed and the bridge itself was given a more flood resilient structure.

The repairs were designed by Curtins engineers and delivered by local contractors Metcalfe’s of Penrith, while stonemasonry was carried out by local firm Cumbrian Stone.

Works were delivered on time and cost around £750,000.

The Head of Infrastructure Recovery at Cumbria County Council said:

The Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport commented: