Published at 08:55, Saturday, 01 September 2012

WORK to repair a road damaged by flood water is being delayed - by a badger sett.

The road over Whinlatter Pass near Keswick collapsed after heavy rain.

When the problem was inspected closely it was discovered that voids underneath the road had been created by a badger sett.

Because badger setts are protected by law the repairs will need to take this into account which will mean a delay in the reopening of the road.

The county council is working with Natural England to find a way of re-opening the road while protecting the sett.

The road is closed west from Woodlands for a 20 metre stretch.

A diversionary route for motorists is available by following the B5292, onto the A66 for 11miles, A5086 then onto Station Road and Lorton Street, returning to the B5292

A highways spokesman: “ Because of these complications it is not clear how long the repairs may take and further updates will be provided when progress has been made. Cumbria County Council apologises for the inconvenience the closure may cause.

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk