Pickmere Lane, Pickmere - Partial Arch Collapse

Due to a serious problem with the arch of the bridge over Waterless Brook, the B5391 Pickmere Lane will stay closed until further notice.

Under current Health and Safety legislation and for the safety of our workforce and members of the public, it is necessary for a road closure to be in place.

The work that is happening

Regular inspections showed that the bridge was getting worse and could collapse. To stop this from happening suddenly and causing flooding, the bridge was safely taken down in a controlled demolition in April 2025.
United Utilities has also put in a temporary diversion of the water main so homes and businesses still have water.

Replacing the bridge is a large and complicated job. It needs careful ground investigations and detailed design work. We have moved funding within our 2026-27 programme so this can go ahead.

A desk study that was carried out showed extra risks in the ground because of artesian water, halite (rock salt), and old brine pumping in the area. We are working with specialist companies to make sure we can manage these risks safely. 

Ground surveys 

Following the ground surveys completed earlier this year, specialist contractors are now carrying out further investigations to gather the information needed to develop bridge replacement options.

The earlier surveys confirmed the ground conditions are broadly as expected, including some areas of underground water. The results from the current investigations will help us identify the preferred option for replacing the bridge.

Once a preferred option is agreed, the project will move into the design and approval stages. We are currently aiming to start construction in summer 2027, although this will depend on the investigation results and any additional work that may be needed.

Site access

The site is completely closed to all traffic, including:

• vehicles
• pedestrians
• cyclists
• horse riders

Please do not move the barriers. It is unsafe to enter the area.

Diversion route

A signed diversion route is in place. All road users, including cyclists, should follow the signs. See the full diversion route.

Further information

• Emergency access cannot be allowed because of the condition of the bridge, but emergency services know about the closure and diversion.
• The road closure protects the safety of both the public and our workforce.
• Diversion routes are in place and clearly signed.
• Local businesses are still open, and access will be provided where possible using diversion routes.
• Delays are likely, so please plan your journey.
• There is no access for pedestrians or cyclists because the bridge area is unsafe.