WORKS on a busy Whitchurch to Malpas route are set to remain for several months.

Cheshire West and Cheshire Council has confirmed that a problem has been discovered with specialist lime mortar used in sandstone block joints on Bradley Bridge.

Councillor Karen Shone, Cabinet member for the environment, said: “Following repairs to the bridge parapet, there is a problem with the lime mortar used in the joints. It has not gained sufficient strength for the wall to be strong enough.

"Expert advice has been sought and the council is working jointly with our highways contractor to find a solution.

“We are now gathering information to establish the reasons for these problems. There are several options available to us to remedy the situation which we will investigate further. We apologise for the inconvenience caused to residents and motorists in the area.”

The bridge in Old Malpas Road will now need to remain under traffic light control with barriers in the channels for several more months.

The bridge was closed for several months in late 2017 and works have been intermittent in the past year.