Fix talks for bridge 'stuck up like a sore thumb'

A broken footbridge that has been "stuck up in the air like a sore thumb" for 18 months "needs to come down", a council leader says.

The structure, on the Elizabeth Dock at Maryport, in Cumbria, was designed to be raised to allow boats in and out of the harbour when water levels are high.

It is believed to have issues with its hydraulic systems, with Maryport Harbour Authority, which has responsibility for it, previously saying it would leave it up due to the cost of maintaining it.

Mark Fryer, who heads Cumberland Council, described the fault as having had a "significant impact" on visitors and businesses.

Fryer told the BBC that having to walk a longer way around the dock was putting people off visiting places such as a nearby cafe.

He said a "positive meeting" had been held with the harbour authority in recent weeks to find a way forward.

"It's been stuck up in the air like a sore thumb. It needs to come down," Fryer said.

"We think it's the hydraulics [that are the issue] and that it could be a fairly simple fix.

"I think we can get it working within two or three months if we commit to it.

"The bridge and some broken lighting nearby are almost the last pieces of the jigsaw [of the town regeneration efforts]. We've got roots of growth in the town centre, but we also need it in and around the harbour.

"Some boats there are not in the best of condition. We asked the harbour authority about them and are expecting a report back on ownership and the timescale for getting them done up."

Fryer said he was unable to disclose the possible cost of the bridge repairs or confirm where funding would come from at this stage, but it is understood several quotes have been gathered by the harbour authority and the council.

The bridge was built in 2007 and gifted to Maryport Harbour and Marina Ltd by Cumbria County Council.

Last year, the harbour authority said it had "limited" income from marina berthing, commercial property and pitch fees from a caravan site, and that it had to "prioritise funds".

Responding to Fryer's call, it said it appreciated the interest shown by the council, adding: "We are actively seeking a solution.

"We also acknowledge Mr Fryer's concerns regarding the condition of some vessels.

"As these vessels are privately owned, our ability to influence their condition or the timescales for any improvements to vessels is limited."

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