Emergency services were called after a van and trailer crashed into the parapet of an historic bridge over the Kennet & Avon Canal in Bath, dislodging chunks of masonry.
The damaged bridge over the Kennet & Avon Canal
The incident on Thursday 23rd October destroyed most of the low wall at Horseshoe Walk Bridge 190 at Widcombe. Initially, navigation for boats was closed.
Safety barriers have been erected on the bridge and the footway has been closed.
Avon & Somerset Police said: “Officers were called to Horseshoe Walk in Bath at around 1.40pm on Thursday 23rd October following a single vehicle collision.
“A van and trailer had collided with a bridge, causing a wall to fall on the bridge.
“It is thought no one was harmed in the incident and officers supported other emergency services in recovering the vehicle.
The bridge was struck by a van towing a trailer
“The scene was then handed over to the local authority.”
Avon Fire & Rescue Service said that firefighters assisted in making the scene safe for locals in the area, including those on boats.
A Canal & River Trust spokesperson told the Echo that vehicle strikes cost the charity more than £1 million per year.
They said the bridge is Grade II listed and an important part of local heritage.
“We’ll work with the conservation officer at the council to progress repairs.
“For now, barriers have been put up to provide safety for footpath users and the canal has reopened to navigation.”
The bridge remains open to traffic.
