TRAFFIC managers say a temporary bridge will open by the end of the month to replace one closed after an inspection.

Durham County Council will install a Bailey bridge at Deerness Bridge to reopen the link across the river, which had to close urgently last month.

Deerness Bridge was closed to all traffic and pedestrians on April 13 after a regular inspection identified that the bridge had come to the end of its useful life.

The replacement Bailey bridge will be single lane, with traffic lights at either side.

It will be suitable for buses but will have an 18-tonne weight restriction. There will also be provision for pedestrians and cyclists.

A Facebook group set up by residents concerned over the bridge closure has attracted more than 400 supporters in six days.

John Reed, the council’s head of technical services, said: “We apologise for any inconvenience or difficulties caused by the closing of the bridge, and would like to thank local people and all users of the route for their ongoing patience.

“The temporary Bailey bridge will enable us to reopen this vital route whilst we develop our plans for a permanent replacement.”

Until the Bailey bridge is ready, diversions will remain in place.

These include a temporary weight restriction of 7.5 tonnes, 40 miles per hour speed limit and one way traffic, north to south from the junction of Broadgate Road and Cockhouse Lane (B6302) to Fairfalls Terrace.

A 7.5-tonne weight restriction will remain in place on the Broadgate Road and Cockhouse Lane junction to Fairfalls Terrace route once the Bailey bridge is open.