Permission sought to repair historic canal bridge after major collision

The Canal & River Trust has applied for listed building consent to repair an historic Bath bridge which was extensively damaged in a collision.

The bridge was struck in October

A vehicle and trailer crashed into the parapet of Horseshoe Bridge over the Kennet & Avon Canal on 23rd October, dislodging chunks of masonry.

Initially, navigation for boats was closed and Avon Fire & Rescue crews assisted in making the scene safe, including for those on boats.

Safety barriers were erected, and the footway closed, although the bridge has remained open to traffic.

The Grade II listed bridge dates from around 1800 and is attributed to engineer John Rennie.

In the application to Bath & North East Somerset Council, the Canal & River Trust says it proposes to repair the damage reusing the salvaged stone where possible.

It says the works will be carried out by local craftspeople specialising in working with Bath stone and with previous extensive experience of repairing similar structures, and the work will be monitored by the trust’s heritage team.

The planning reference is 25/04403/LBA. The deadline for comments is 17th January.

The Canal & River Trust says vehicle strikes cost the charity more than £1 million per year.