RECONSTRUCTION work on a bridge at Gilling West has been completed a week ahead of schedule.

The work involved taking down and rebuilding the majority of the parapets to Grade II-listed Gilling Bridge.

Executive member for highways Cllr Don Mackenzie said: “The condition of the parapet was deteriorating quickly.

"It was discovered that the mortar holding the parapet together had become soft all the way through the wall and in some places stone had become loose.

"The full reconstruction was the more expensive option, but has returned the wall to ‘as new’ condition and means it should require less maintenance in future.”

Work began in September and good progress by the contractor meant the work was completed a week early. The temporary traffic lights have now been removed and traffic can again move freely.

It is believed the bridge was built more than 200 years ago in 1799.

It was later widened and was strengthened in 1986, but it was clear that in the past the parapets had been rebuilt in isolated sections to repair damage caused by vehicles hitting the bridge.

Local county councillor Angus Thompson said: "The village is in awe of the superb job the contractors have done and we ought to say ‘well done’ to everyone involved in this £122,000 restoration project.”