Formby residents raise eyebrows as apparently sound bridge faces demolition

Originally, the plan had been to refurbish the bridge. However, detailed investigations found extensive corrosion in its wrought-iron structure, along with evidence that the existing 3-tonne weight limit had frequently been ignored, causing severe structural damage.

Engineers concluded the bridge was no longer safe to remain open, leading to its closure to all road users. Hello Formby! members questioned the 3 year period to take this decision, as well as whether a rebuild was really necessary.

A new bridge planned

Following further surveys and consultation with stakeholders and the local community, the decision has now been made to replace the bridge entirely.

The new crossing will be built at a lower level and will only span Cheshire Lines Brook. As part of the redesign, the Cheshire Lines Path will cross over Moss Lane rather than passing underneath it, which engineers say will improve access and make maintenance easier.

The replacement bridge will be built to modern highway standards and is expected to have a design life of at least 120 years.

Planning application later this year

Design work is now underway, with a planning application expected to be submitted later this year.

The final design will continue to be refined in consultation with stakeholders to ensure it meets the needs of road users, pedestrians and cyclists as far as possible.

No reopening date has yet been announced, but the replacement bridge will allow Moss Lane to reopen once construction is complete.

Drivers have also had to plan around the 11-day closure of a key road into Formby and the three-day Brooms Cross Road closure.