Whorlton Bridge just weeks away from opening

Whorlton Bridge is weeks away from reopening to pedestrians and vehicles.

Seven years ago, cars and other vehicles were banned from crossing the Grade II-listed bridge and it was closed to pedestrians the following year.

Consequently, residents on either side of the River Tees in Whorlton, Westwick, Thorpe and other rural communities have had to make significant detours.

But the end is now in sight, as these pictures from Richard Laidler of Middleton Photo Services indicate.

In April, a spokesman for Durham County Council said that new decking for the bridge was due to be installed in June and so it has proved.

The refurbished bridge which opened in 1831, is due to reopen later in the summer once all ancillary works are complete.”