We need a long-term solution for Chetwynd Bridge.
For too long, residents, farmers and road hauliers have faced disruption because of the weight restrictions on Chetwynd Bridge, the crossing over the River Tame between Edingale and Alrewas. The restrictions have made journeys more difficult, increased costs for local businesses and left farmers facing lengthy detours to access their own land. We need a long-term solution that protects this historic bridge while ensuring our local transport network works for the communities and businesses that depend on it.
On Wednesday 14th October, I joined fellow local MPs in Parliament for a debate secured by my friend and neighbour, Dave Robertson MP, to raise the impact of the weight restrictions on this Grade II listed bridge and the need for Government support.
Chetwynd Bridge is an important crossing for people travelling between Tamworth, Lichfield and Burton. However, the current restrictions are creating real difficulties for residents, farmers, hauliers and local businesses who rely on the route.
For farmers, the restrictions can mean lengthy journeys simply to reach their own land. For hauliers, diversion routes add to journey times and fuel costs, putting further pressure on businesses. Residents and other motorists also continue to contend with traffic lights and a 20mph speed limit when crossing the bridge.
These are not just transport issues. They affect the day-to-day running of local businesses, the practicalities of working in our rural communities and the wider local economy. Diversions can also increase congestion on surrounding roads and create additional challenges for emergency services.
We need a solution that works for the future.
The proposal is to build a new bridge alongside the existing Chetwynd Bridge. This would provide an opportunity to address the transport difficulties caused by the current restrictions while protecting the historic, Grade II listed structure.
It is important that we find a solution that recognises both the bridge's heritage and its role in our local transport network. Our farmers need to be able to access their land, businesses need reliable routes to move goods, and residents need infrastructure that supports the communities in which they live and work.
What did the Government say?
During the debate, the Minister recognised the impact that restrictions and closures on local roads can have on businesses and communities, acknowledging that diversions cost businesses money, take up drivers' time and can increase congestion on other roads.
The Minister also highlighted the Government's new Structures Fund, which will provide capital funding to help local highway authorities repair or replace major highway structures that they cannot afford to restore from their existing budgets.
Importantly, the Minister confirmed that Staffordshire County Council had put Chetwynd Bridge forward for funding and had effectively conveyed the strength of local support for its replacement plans.
The Government expects to announce the successful schemes in the autumn, with the Minister confirming that local communities will be updated as soon as possible following those announcements.
This is an important opportunity for our area. I will continue to press for the funding needed to deliver a lasting solution and will be watching closely for the Government's decision.
Making the case for investment
I have supported Staffordshire County Council's bid for Government funding because I recognise the importance of addressing this issue. Delivering a new
bridge would require significant investment, and securing the necessary funding is a crucial step towards making that possible.
The Minister also highlighted the Government's commitment to investing £7.3 billion in local highways maintenance over four years, alongside the Structures Fund. That investment recognises the need to address ageing infrastructure and ensure our roads and bridges are safe, reliable and fit for the future.
Today's debate was another opportunity to raise these concerns directly in Parliament and press the Government on the need for action. I will continue to work with fellow local MPs and Staffordshire County Council to make the case for the investment our area needs.
Chetwynd Bridge is part of our local heritage, but we must also ensure our transport infrastructure meets the needs of the people and businesses who depend on it today.
Our communities deserve a long-term solution, and I will continue to push for the action and investment needed to deliver one.
