Cocker Bridge to reopen after collapse of Old Courthouse, Cockermouth

Cocker Bridge in Cockermouth will reopen this Friday, July 12, after extensive structural assessment.

A new safeguard will be put in place to make it so two-way traffic can flow, protecting the bridge from the partially collapsed Old Courthouse building.

The Old Courthouse was declared unsafe in November 2021 after the fast-flowing River Cocker eroded the stone section underneath it, and it collapsed during October last year.

Old Courthouse collapsed last year (Image: Supplied)

Road closed after Old Courthouse collapse (Image: Supplied)

Cumberland Council said an alternative screening protection will be installed on Friday with existing scaffolding on the bridge removed.

This may result in some periods of temporary road closures at short notice, the council said, while the existing screen is dismantled.

Historic England, Natural England and the Environment Agency worked together with Cumberland Council to work on reopening the bridge.

The courthouse continues to stand but several factors impact any proposed works, including the site being landlocked, the building being Grade II listed and therefore requiring work to be minimal, the adjacent River Cocker being of special scientific interest, the impact on waste flows and protection of flood defences requiring careful consideration, and requirements for archaeological investigation and subsequent excavation if deemed necessary.

A Cumberland Council spokesperson said: “Our officers continue to work with all the various partners and agencies involved in this issue.

“We are having to follow a complex legal process that involves the support of various council teams and external partners.

“Discussions are ongoing with the owner of the property.

“We have however taken steps to reopen the bridge to two-way traffic.”

Darren Crossley, Cumberland Council director of place, sustainable growth and transport, said: "Detailed assessments have been carried out and a plan is in place which will result in the bridge reopening fully on Friday.

“Preparatory work will be undertaken on Wednesday.

"The existing screening will be removed and following further expert advice from a structural engineer, an alternative screening will be put in place.

“This will ensure that traffic can flow two-ways, with no traffic light control, but will also ensure that the appropriate safeguards are in place to protect the bridge and its users.”

Andrew Semple, ward councillor for Cockermouth South, said: “This is great news for the town.”

Cllr Semple said the overall operation is ‘really complicated’ but that one which is understood by residents.

He added that great credit should be paid to all organisations dedicated to working on making the road safe while also preserving the integrity of the Old Courthouse as best they can.

While it’s great news for townspeople and businesses, he added: “What Cockermouth has are huge assets -  it has a huge number of independent shops and a variety of restaurants – we should always accentuate the positives of the town.”