There are no plans to replace Gote Bridge in Cockermouth, the county council has confirmed.

Last week, people in the town called for a single-span bridge to replace the structure to reduce flooding.

They said the arched bridge acted as a dam when water levels rose and debris blocked the arches, causing floodwater to back up and cover the town centre.

A joint report by the Environment Agency and county council has recommended some work in and around the town to reduce flood risk, including looking at river flows upstream.

Town trader Jonty Chippendale likened doing that work but not addressing the bridge as “moving deckchairs on the Titanic”.

This week, Councillor Keith Little, executive member responsible for highways, said: “Replacing Gote Bridge is not currently a strategic priority due to the fact that engineers from both the council and the Environment Agency have reported the bridge being fit for purpose and is fully serviceable in both directions.”

He added that work was planned to increase the flow capacity under the bridge and identify how debris could be trapped further upstream.

Coun Little said: “The council is aware of the local community’s concerns regarding Gote Bridge and will continue to liaise with the public about plans for flood recovery.

“Currently there is no funding available to construct a new bridge, and the council is not currently seeking funding for a new bridge.

“We are awaiting the recommendations of the final flood investigation report before any decision on a possible new bridge can be made.”