CALLS have been made for better maintenance of wooden bridges across the dale to prevent them rotting and leading to their eventual closure.
Particular concern has been raised about Beckstones Wath footbridge, also known as the Millennium Bridge, which has not been treated since it was erected two decades ago, in March 2000.
Now county councillor Richard Bell, who represents Barnard Castle West ward, is calling on county finance bosses to earmark cash for regular maintenance to prevent bridges from falling into disrepair and having to be closed.
A footbridge near Snotterton Hall, in Staindrop, was shut for several months two years ago after it became structurally unsafe.
Cllr Bell said: “The current council policy and practice is not to do any preventative maintenance on wooden bridges. They erect it, inspect it and when it has rotted too much, they close it.
“A normal person treats outside wooden structures with preservative every few years.
“I became aware of this policy after bridges over public footpaths in my ward were closed.
“I am concerned now for the Beckstones Wath footbridge which is crying out for some attention,” he added.
“It is frustrating because a little bit of effort would save so much.”
People in Eggleston and Mickleton began a campaign for a footbridge at Beckstones Wath in the 1980s. When it was built it was believed to be the first new bridge over the upper reaches of the River Tees in more than 200 years.
It allowed for circular walks to be made in the area and it is linked to the Teesdale Way.
