SAFETY measures have been put in place to prevent an historic bridge in Trafford from suffering further structural damage from vehicles.

The One Trafford Partnership has introduced an experimental traffic management scheme at Seamons Road Bridge.

The Grade II listed bridge structure was damaged in a road traffic collision earlier this year, compromising the structural integrity of the bridge and resulting in long-term closure.

To reduce further vehicle strikes and damage to the parapet wall of Seamons Road Bridge, the proposed scheme aims to reduce the width on both approaches to the bridge.

Together with the width restrictions, kerbed islands and bollards, new and improved signage has been installed on both approaches to the bridge.

The bridge is open to cars, light goods vehicles like vans and cyclists.

Signage will also be placed to divert HGV along an appropriate diversion route.

Without vehicle width restrictions, the large coping stones, which sit long top edge of the bridge wall, are at risk of falling should the bridge be struck again, on to the tow path or canal below which could result in serious injury or fatality.

The experimental scheme will be regularly monitored as to the effectiveness of the traffic calming measures and implement any changes or improvements that need to be made.

If the trial proves to be a success and provides a viable solution for the safety of pedestrians, commuters, motorists and the conservations of the historic structure, the width restriction will remain in place.

Executive councillor for environment, air quality and climate change, Cllr Stephen Adshead, said: “The proposed scheme has been devised to ensure the safety of towpath pedestrians and canal users when passing under the bridge.

"Although it will restrict large vehicles like HGVs, the width restriction will reduce injury risk or potential fatalities to users crossing under the bridge and protect this listed structure from any further damage.”

“Trafford has a rich history, therefore protecting such heritage sites like Seamons Road Bridge is important to us. We will be working together with the consultation teams and the community to ensure the best solution can be provided.”

The bridge was opened in 1776 to carry Seamons Road over the Bridgewater Canal.

The canal was engineered by John Gilbert and opened in 1761, making it an important form of transportation during the Industrial Revolution.