Anger as bridge closure sparks lengthy diversions

Residents in an area of Burnley have seen an eight-fold increase in the length of some journeys after a bridge was closed for repairs, it has been claimed.

Reedley Marina Bridge, on Barden Lane, shut on Monday – marking the start of an expected five-week diversion for motorists who would usually use the route.   It follows an accident in September which damaged the structure.

However, County Cllr Usman Arif, who represents the Burnley North East division, has hit out at the complete closure of the bridge – asking why the work could not be carried out under the temporary lights that have controlled traffic at the location since the smash five months ago.

He has also expressed alarm that an initial plan to maintain through-route access for emergency vehicles was dropped two days into the repair project.

“The closure directly affects approximately 600 households, including residents on the Lower Manor Estate, Barden Lane, Marina View and Birch Road – all of whom rely on Barden Lane as their sole vehicular access route,” County Cllr Arif told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

“Residents are now being forced to make lengthy diversion journeys for even short local trips – with a disproportionate impact on elderly residents, people with medical needs, families and those who do not drive.

“Some residents have reported that journeys which would normally take around five minutes are now taking up to 40 minutes.

“Residents have also rightly questioned why vehicular access was safely maintained for several months using temporary traffic lights following the damage to the bridge in September 2025, yet [that] is now considered impossible during the repair phase. In particular, the current works relate to the bridge wall rather than the carriageway itself.”

County Cllr Arif said he had raised the issues with the county council’s director of highways – including concerns over “the serious implications for emergency response”.

Pedestrian access to properties is being maintained and cyclists are to dismount before the bridge.

Meanwhile, locals have been left confused by signage at the site which suggests the closure could last for three months, when the temporary traffic regulation order permitting the work refers to an end date of 23rd March. The LDRS has confirmed that the shorter timeframe is the correct one.

A spokesperson for Lancashire County Council said:  “We understand the disruption and frustration this closure is causing for residents who rely on Barden Lane, and we recognise the impact the diversion is having on day‑to‑day journeys.

“The bridge is closed from 18th February to 23rd March while essential repairs are completed following damage caused by vehicle impacts. Inspections confirmed there is not enough space to safely allow vehicles to pass during the works, meaning a full closure is necessary.

“Emergency services were notified in advance and an agreed diversion route is in place. Signage is being updated to reflect the current timescale, and we thank residents for their patience while the work is carried out.”