Potter Heigham Bridge moves step closer to reopening

Potter Heigham Bridge has been shut since December last year after a hole the size of a wellington boot developed.

Investigations began into what caused the crater, which revealed more serious structural problems than first thought which will require intensive repairs.

The hole that prompted the bridge closure and repair effort (Image: Paul Rice)

It has since reopened to pedestrians but the medieval bridge could remain closed to drivers for several more months.

Potter Heigham Bridge was closed in December (Image: Paul Rice)

Norfolk County Council met with Historic England recently to discuss its plans and have agreed on a two-phased approach to the repairs.

A Norfolk County Council spokesman said: "Phase one involves filling the voids in the bridge structure. Two treatment options have been suggested to Historic England to assess and approve.

"Once done so, the council will begin the work to enable the road to reopen."

Divers investigate Potter Heigham bridge (Image: Paul Rice)

The second phase includes reporting abutments and making repairs to the arches.

The council spokesman added: "With agreement from all parties this work will be carried out at night over the summer months, so disruption to watercrafts is kept to a minimum and the bridge can remain open to traffic at all times."

The bridge, along with St Benet's Abbey, is one of the most recognisable landmarks on the Norfolk Broads and adorns countless postcards.

It crosses the River Thurne, which divides the parishes of Potter Heigham and Repps with Bastwick.

Potter Heigham Bridge is a well-known landmark in the Broads (Image: Newsquest)

There have been calls for the ancient monument to be completely pedestrianised in order to help keep it from being damaged by modern vehicles.

Paul Rice, chairman of the Broads Society said: "I think the bridge should be pedestrianised.

"I think it's the right time. This is the opportunity to do it."