A team of experts led by Sustrans and The Coal Authority is making progress in the investigation of the River Calder bridge on the Padiham Greenway.
The bridge has been closed since 2021 due to safety concerns arising from cracks and subsidence with a team of engineers aiming to uncover the underlying causes of these issues.
Initiated on May 9, the investigation's next phase involved drilling into the ground beneath the bridge. The team encountered challenges as they encountered remarkably robust rock formations but despite these difficulties, they have persevered, and the final borehole is expected to be completed by the end of this week.
Local Member of Parliament Antony Higginbotham, who has been working to find a resolution said:
We all know getting the greenway bridge reopened isn’t a quick or easy fix. But I’m doing all I can in working with the Coal Authority and Sustrans, who own the bridge, alongside local Councillor Jamie McGowan, to get this bridge reopened as soon as we can.
As residents can see, progress continues to be made to establish a definitive reason for the cracks and subsidence, which is welcome. I want to thank both the Coal Authority and Sustrans who I'm keeping in close contact with.
Once we have the results of this sonar scan a plan can be put together to get the bridge reopened.
A crucial step in the investigation is scheduled for June 10, as a sonar scan will provide valuable insights into the subsurface conditions. Access has been granted by an adjacent business, facilitating this important step. The scan promises to offer a clearer understanding of the issues affecting the bridge.
While the investigation continues, safety remains the top priority. Emergency stabilisation work was carried out in 2021, temporarily stabilising the bridge by injecting grout into voids in the ground. Ongoing monitoring, facilitated by sensors installed by Sustrans and The Coal Authority, ensures prompt detection of any significant changes in the bridge's condition.
However, it is anticipated that the bridge will remain closed until at least late 2024. Repair work may involve additional river works and the acquisition of permits from the Environment Agency, posing additional challenges. Collaboration with partners and the local community will be crucial to secure the necessary funding for the repairs.
Photos kindly provided by the Coal Authority
