CLAIMS over the condition and safety of a Carlisle bridge have been dismissed as "inaccurate accusations" by a senior councillor.
Councillor Robert Betton (Botcherby, Independent Group) asked a question about Durranhill Viaduct, which is on Eastern Way, to councillor Denise Rollo (Harrington, Labour), who is the portfolio holder for sustainable, resilient and connected places.
Cllr Betton said a full assessment of the condition of the structure had been carried out and concerns had been raised by residents over its condition and safety.
In his question, which was taken as read during Tuesday's (April 30) meeting of Cumberland Council at the Civic Centre in Carlisle, he asked: "A full assessment of Durranhill Viaduct (Eastern Way Bridge) in Carlisle was undertaken by external bridge engineers in March.
"This bridge which is a southern link from the A69 Warwick Road to the A6 London Road, and crosses over the GNER and other railway company lines.
"Prior to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), Cumbria County Council had promised to commit funds to do repairs to the bridge but only a third of the work had been carried when the funding was withdrawn, and no further works have been done to date.
"Local people have been concerned about the state of the bridge for many years and rightly so as there is two feet of water at the central bridge base, spalling concrete, broken road surface, uneven footpaths and trees growing in the central wall parapet, as well as rusting railings and consistent water leakage the whole length.
"Finally, this report will give the public some answers to their concerns, and we will know if any improvement works need to take place.
"The report also need to be shared with Network Rail so they are aware of any defects that might affect the railway line."
He asked if Cllr Rollo would make the report public on the council's website and that a maintenance plan, including total costings along with the total cost for bridge maintenance for the current financial year, as well as a list of prioritised bridge maintenance be produced.
He added: "Where is Durranhill Viaduct on the list?"
Cllr Rollo questioned his ability to judge the condition of the viaduct and asked if he was 'a qualified structural engineer'? She said that it should be determined on an engineering priority basis.
Cllr Betton asked: "Why are you hiding things from the public? The public should know all of this. This has been going on for many years."
Cllr Rollo described his assertion as "nonsensical" but agreed to provide a detailed response.
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