WORK is due to begin on repairs to a bridge that was damaged by flooding more than two years ago.

A disagreement over the ownership of Gaskell Bridge in Loftus, east Cleveland, meant that the works were delayed until the legal issue was resolved.

The initial closure of the bridge in September 2013 left many elderly residents stranded in their homes when a section of the ancient bridge collapsed due to torrential rainfall.

Redcar and Cleveland Council initially estimated that it would cost £80,000 to repair the bridge, but after the structure collapsed residents discovered that it was owned by a woman who lives on the street.

She had no idea she was responsible for the bridge until it was damaged and inspection of the deeds to her property revealed her as the owner.

The emergency services have limited access to Gaskell Lane in the town, leaving some residents in fear for their safety.

Cllr Helen McLuckie, cabinet member for neighbourhoods at the council, said: “I am delighted we are making significant progress in repairing the bridge and to re-establish a proper road connection for the residents of Gaskell Lane.

“We have worked closely with residents, local MP Tom Blenkinsop and local councillors since the closure, and will continue to work in partnership with Northumbrian Water until the bridge is secure.”

The work is due to start on Monday, November 16 and be completed by next June after the council and Northumbrian Water came up with the programme of works to get it re-opened using original stonework.

And the news has been welcomed by Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Tom Blenkinsop, who has campaigned for the work to be carried out as soon as possible.

He said: “Getting to this stage has been a very difficult process and I was pleased when the Labour controlled council took on this responsibility. I am obviously overjoyed that work to carry out the repairs will get underway later this week.

“The residents have had to wait a long time for these repairs so I have my fingers crossed that we have reasonably decent weather as to not hamper the workers who will be carrying them out. Nobody is under any illusion that the repairs will be easy and they will take some time, but I think we now have an end in sight for this saga and everyone can be pleased.”