Nether Bridge in Kendal closes to all vehicles for up to five days from 12 October while Westmorland and Furness Council rebuilds a damaged section of the southern parapet. The repair reuses original stone recovered from the site, supplemented by locally sourced material.
A 10-metre section of the parapet was demolished in June. The council maintains pedestrian and cyclist access across the bridge via the northern footway throughout the repair period.
Rebuilding from the deck, not the river
The parapet is the low wall along the edge of the bridge deck. Normally, such repairs might be done using scaffolding erected below the bridge. Nether Bridge’s status as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, plus the River Kent’s designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation, preclude riverbed work except during a permitted river working window, which falls in summer 2027.
To avoid waiting, the council carries out the entire repair from the bridge deck. This requires full road closure because site vehicles and equipment occupy almost the entire carriageway. No safe lane remains for two-way traffic during the work.
Traditional materials to protect heritage
The repair uses traditional lime mortar to match the bridge’s historic fabric. Unlike modern cement mortar, lime mortar is softer and more porous. This allows the old stonework to flex and breathe with changes in temperature and moisture without cracking.
Lime mortar sets slowly and must cure before winter frost. The October timing allows sufficient curing before colder weather arrives, reducing the risk of frost damage during the curing process.
Traffic management and local impact
A signed diversion directs vehicles via Romney Bridge and Milnthorpe Road. Additional signage prevents heavy goods vehicles from using Parkside Road due to a railway bridge height restriction.
The council has not published the repair cost or contractor details. This work forms part of Westmorland and Furness Council’s broader highways maintenance, which in June included a £3.4 million surface dressing programme.
What drivers can expect
If the repair progresses as planned, vehicles will return to Nether Bridge by the end of the week. The parapet will be rebuilt largely from its original stones, restoring the bridge’s historic structure while maintaining safety and access.
