BICKLEIGH Bridge on the A396 Tiverton to Exeter Road will be closed during half-term on Monday, February 21 and Tuesday, February 22 for essential repairs to be carried out on the retaining walls and to remove tree debris from around the pillars.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, cabinet member for highway management, said: "It’s unfortunate that we’re having to repair vehicle damage to the bridge again.

"Every effort is being made to minimise disruption while carrying out this work, which is why it’s been timed for only a couple of days of the half-term holiday."

A vehicle crash at the end of 2021 caused damage to the parapet on the Tiverton side of the bridge.

Prior to that a lorry hit the bridge damaging the structure and closing the bridge for several weeks, just months after work had been carried out to prevent collisions.

Councillor Margaret Squires, County Councillor for Creedy, Taw and Mid Exe, said: “I am pleased that the road closure is for only two days and I urge the public to bear with us during the works and follow the diversions.

“I understand that there will be pedestrian access across the bridge when it is safe to do so.”

During the works signed diversions will be in place via the A3072, A377 and A396.