Covered walkway opens over Cocker Bridge

Cumberland Council’s highways team started work on the walkway on Wednesday. The new temporary walkway provides access for pedestrian and cyclists.

The bridge is currently closed to vehicles, as a precautionary measure, following the partial collapse of the Old Courthouse building on Sunday, October 8

Temporary traffic lights have been installed in Kirkgate and the on street parking in this area has been suspended to help manage the flow of traffic within the town.

Matt Le Voi, Isabelle (6), Finnley (4) from Brigham were some of the first people to cross the new safe walkway in Cockermouth (Image: Suzanne Elsworth)There has been a sense of shock around Cockermouth since the historic and well-loved building partially collapsed on Sunday.

Market Place business owners have been left ‘absolutely devastated’ by the closure of Cocker Bridge following the partial collapse of the Old Courthouse and whilst traders are pleased to see a covered walkway being created over the town centre bridge which links Main Street with Market Place, they are worried about the future.

Cumberland Council spokesperson said: “We want to keep the traffic moving and keep the town connected. 

“Cockermouth is open for business and the new covered walkway provides access across the Cocker bridge. Please continue to support local traders and visit the town.”

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A 3D LiDAR building survey was undertaken on Thursday, October 12. This assessed the building and the bridge to help inform the next steps.

Works already undertaken include the fencing off the river embankment in the potential drop zone and screening has been installed on the bridge.

Discussions are ongoing with key partners including the owner of the building with Cumberland Council saying that they are "continuing to support affected residents and businesses."