Work starts on crumbling bridge

Corrosion has damaged the bridge supports

A main route into Derby which has been closed to most traffic for almost a year could be reopened by September.

Work to repair a crumbling bridge on London Road finally got underway on Monday.

London Road was closed to two-way traffic in August after structural problems were discovered.

Derby City Council is paying for props to be fitted to stabilise the bridge for the next five to 10 years.

However, the 100-year-old structure will eventually have to be replaced.

The strengthening work was due to start last Monday, but there were delays in getting permission to access the site.

The council has applied for permission to keep the road partially closed until November but says this is just a precaution.

The work, which will cost around £150,000, is due to be completed by mid-September.