ONE of two main roads into a town in Pendle could be closed to heavy lorries next spring if a bridge carrying it over a disused railway line is not strengthened, according to a county councillor.

Highways officials have confirmed to Councillor David Whipp they are considering a 7.5 tonne weight restriction on the bridge in Barnoldswick Road, Kelbrook.

"The economic and environmental impact will be very harsh if this bridge is closed to heavy wagons," said Coun Whipp. "Industry will be hit and residents and other road users on diversion routes will be badly affected by the displaced traffic.

"The road is a lifeline for jobs. It must not be closed to lorry traffic."

Coun Whipp said the bridge was 15th on a priority list for strengthening work drawn up following a survey of bridges in the county and, costing £300,000, was the most expensive.

County Councillor Richard Toon, chairman of the county's highways and transportation committee, said there were severe difficulties with weak bridges all over the county. The problem is getting worse as inspections revealed more and more bridges in need of repair work.

The committee has agreed to take into account the economic impact of closing bridges to heavy goods vehicles when deciding which should be repaired first.

The county council is also going to ask the government for more cash for bridge replacement and repairs.

Barnoldswick Road, known locally as the New Road, is the main route into Barnoldswick from Lancashire.

The other main road into the town is along Skipton Road from the North Yorkshire direction.

If the bridge was closed to heavy wagons, drivers would have to continue along the A56 through Earby and into Thornton-in-Craven and from there along Skipton Road into the town.

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