Bridge will still lift for ships if masts are removed

Proposals to remove the support masts from a bridge will not stop tall ships from passing through or traffic using the route, a planning application states.

The High Orchard bridge on the A430 St Ann's Way carries traffic over the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal and functions as a key route for traffic in Gloucester.

Under the plans submitted by the Canal and River Trust, the bridge's masts will be permanently removed to ensure the long-term safety of the structure. If approved, the work would take about three weeks to complete.

The trust's chiefs confirmed that the bridge's lifting mechanism will remain intact despite the changes.

The trust said further deterioration had occurred since cracks within parts of the mast structure were first discovered in March 2024, "reinforcing the need for a permanent solution".

A trust spokesperson added: "The structure remains safe and is subject to regular monitoring."

However, the bridge is scheduled to close overnight for two nights in August for maintenance work.

The Canal and River Trust say there are no plans to replace the masts, as assessments have concluded they are not required for the bridge to continue operating safely and effectively.

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.