Skip to content

Bridge demolition application withdrawn

Pamela TickellNorth East and Cumbria
News imageThe HRE Group The brick-built Black Squares Bridge sits over a grey stony pathway, similar to many paths that follow old railway lines. There is someone in a grey jumper walking towards the bridge. It has a wide, shallow arch with thick sides. There is tall grass and thin trees on either side of the path.The HRE Group
Stockton Council planned to demolish Black Squares Bridge (pictured) and Crawford's Bridge

A council has withdrawn its application to demolish two former railway bridges following criticism from a heritage group.

On 25 August, Stockton Council said it planned to take down the Crawford's and Black Squares bridges on the Castle Eden Walkway in Wynyard as they were at risk of collapse.

The Labour-led authority has now withdrawn its prior notification proposal, which asks planners whether prior approval is needed in order to demolish them to "provide more time" for its heritage impact surveys to be considered.

Campaigners The HRE Group previously called for the bridges to be protected and maintained and said demolition would be an "appalling waste of money".

The walking and cycle route is part of an old railway line through County Durham.

News imageThe HRE Group A close up of a significant crack about 7in (20cm) wide running vertically down the side of the bridge. The bricks are aged and dotted with white splotches. Plants grow close to the bridge.The HRE Group
The HRE Group said the bridges should be repaired and maintained

Councillor Nigel Cooke, cabinet member for environment, leisure and culture, said: "The prior notification for the demolition of two bridges at Castle Eden Walkway has been withdrawn.

"This decision has been taken to provide more time for additional information to be considered."

Follow BBC Tees on X,Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram and listen to Radio Tees on BBC Sounds.

More on this story
Related internet links