A HARBOUR bridge that has been out of action since 2023 is finally due to be fixed – after a local engineering company stepped in.
Forth has agreed to take on the task of repairing the footbridge at Elizabeth Dock in Maryport, bringing hope that the structure, which has been a blight on the waterfront for 18 months, could soon be restored.
Managing Director Mark Telford signed up for the job after a meeting with the leader of Cumberland Council, Mark Fryer, who told him: “We need a solution.”
Mark Telford said: “The leader was quite clear in his view that this situation has been going on for far too long. Maryport has been transformed in recent years thanks to a significant cash injection and the hard work of local people who have a vision for its future.
“The bridge has become an issue of frustration for many residents and business owners, and with no prospect of it being repaired any time soon, we were delighted to step in.
“As a business based in this community, we want to make a difference where we can. This is an important local asset, and we are proud to be helping to restore it.”
Maryport-headquartered Forth, which has a strong commitment to supporting the local community, will begin by conducting exploratory works to assess the extent of the problem.
Following this, they will develop a comprehensive solution, with the aim of completing the project by the summer.
The Elizabeth Dock Bridge was built in 2007 over the Elizabeth Dock and gifted to Maryport Harbour and Marina Ltd by Cumbria County Council.
During low water, the bridge acted as a pedestrian walkway and was raised to allow boats into the harbour when the water was high. However, since 2023, it has been stuck in an upright position due to suspected hydraulic issues.
Maryport Harbour and Marina Ltd has struggled to find a viable solution to fix it due to limited funding and the complexities of the computer controlled systems.
Mr Fryer had previously expressed concern about the impact of the faulty bridge on local businesses and visitors, describing it as being “stuck up in the air like a sore thumb.”
He said today: “Fixing the bridge is one of the final pieces of major regeneration work required as part of the transformation of Maryport.
“Following recent discussions, the contractors Forth are now on site, I have spoken to them on two occasions, that’s how important this is to us, the business community and more importantly the people of Maryport.
“My conversation with Mark Telford from Forth was productive and direct; they are a solutions focused business, they are on our doorstep, and they get stuff done.
“I’m now incredibly hopeful we will have a fully operational bridge well in time for the summer months – and this that will act as a catalyst for further improvements in the harbour area.”
