COUNCILLORS in Hilperton have expressed concerns about the cracks appearing in the stone and brickwork of the Whaddon Lane canal bridge, which is part of the main access road into the village.

The bridge over the Kennet & Avon Canal has begun to show cracks in the brickwork from the top of the parapet to the road surface below.

Stonework also appears to be showing cracks on the other side of the bridge and, in some areas, deep crevices and holes are apparent.

Cllr Dennis Drewett, the mayor of Trowbridge, was walking along the canal towpath when he noticed the cracks and took photographs of the bridge.

He said: “The bridge appears to be suffering from wear and so I took some photographs.

“I have reported it to Wiltshire Council but they say the Canal & River Trust is responsible for the bridge.

“I have also asked for a weight restriction to be placed on it, but the council says this isn’t possible because there is no other means of access to Whaddon village.”

Hilperton Parish Council chairman Ernie Clark said: “We have been concerned about the bridge for some years but it’s only in the last six to seven months that it has become really noticeable.

“Wiltshire Council know about it, because I have been in touch with them. It’s absolutely disgraceful. A couple of our councillors live at Whaddon and they also have commented on the cracks.

“There is no weight limit on the bridge and the council says it can’t impose one because it would affect the viability of the businesses down there.”

A Canal & River Trust spokesman said they were aware of the cracks and assured residents that the bridge is still safe.

The trust said: “We’re aware of the cracks on the bridge and, while they look a bit unsightly, the cracking is not currently showing signs of further degradation.

“Our engineers will continue to monitor the cracks and we’ll take any action as and when required. The rest of the bridge is in good condition, so we have no concerns on that front.”

A Wiltshire Council spokesman said: “It would not be appropriate to put a weight limit on the bridge as it serves as the only access to a number of properties and businesses.

“A structural weight limit would prevent access by vehicles including deliveries, refuse collection and the emergency services.

“We are in discussion with the Canal & River Trust with a view to agreeing what works may be required to ensure the bridge can continue to carry these unrestricted traffic loads into the future.”