Last updated at 11:30, Tuesday, 17 January 2012

A vandalised bridge near Lazonby could reopen this week after workmen literally redoubled their efforts over the weekend.

Engineers initially feared that the bridge on the B6413 between Lazonby and Kirkoswald may have to be closed for up to two weeks after vandals destroyed temporary traffic lights and pushed over a parapet wall, already undergoing repairs after it was hit by a vehicle.

The county council said they made “excellent progress” with repairs over the weekend when a double sized crew and stonemasons were diverted from other highways jobs.

A spokesman said a large part of the replacement wall had been built with the original stone recovered from the river. They now hope the bridge can reopen within a couple of days.

Tony Markley, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member responsible for highways, said he was delighted.

“The mindless vandalism which led to its closure has just reminded the local community how important this bridge is to everyday life,” he said.

“It’s unfortunate that council tax payers have been left to carry the cost of someone else’s stupidity and I’d urge anyone with any knowledge of the incident to contact the police.”

First published at 11:23, Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk