A BRIDGE which was closed after being damaged during severe weather last month has reopened.

Frosterley Bridge, in Weardale, County Durham, was closed two days before Christmas amid fears that tree debris washed down the river by strong current may have caused structural damage.

Durham County Council closed the bridge as a precautionary measure in the wake of Storm Desmond, until inspections could be carried out.

Motorists were diverted through Stanhope while the closure was in place.

The safety inspections were only able to take place once the river levels had dropped sufficiently to allow fallen trees to be removed and for divers to safely examine the extent of any possible damage below the surface.

There were concerns that high river levels caused by the storm, coupled with further concerns over downed trees being forced into the bridge structure by the stronger currents, could be dangerous to the structure.

After the rain had eased, the debris was cleared from the river and inspections were carried out on Monday, January, 11.

The bridge was reopened that afternoon.

Although there is some damage to the apron and cutwater at the base of the structure, which will both require repairs, the bridge has been deemed safe for the public to use.

John Reed, Durham County Council’s head of technical services, said: “Until we were able to assess the damage, it was essential to close the bridge to make sure everyone remained safe.

“We’re delighted that, now inspections have taken place, we have been able to reopen the bridge and would like to thank local residents for their patience.”

Gale force winds and flooding caused by Storm Desmond in early December left more than 65,000 residents in the region without power, while emergency services were stretched to their limits rescuing residents and animals stranded in flood waters.