AN historic aqueduct will close for essential maintenance work next month to ensure future generations can continue to cross in safety.

Northumbrian Water will begin a three-and-a-half-month programme of work at Deepdale Aqueduct in Barnard Castle on Tuesday, September 1.

It will see the water company replace the rotten timber decking of the pedestrian-only bridge, known locally as the Silver Bridge, with glass reinforced plastic to ensure it can be safely used for years to come.

The cast iron bridge, which is a Grade II listed building due to its industrial interest and importance, was built in 1898 by Stockton and Middlesbrough Water Board to transport drinking water over the River Tees.

It currently houses three water mains which transport tap water from a nearby water treatment works to Barnard Castle and Teesside.

It is also part of the Teesdale Way, which is a popular route with walkers.

Nicholas Tudberry, Northumbrian Water’s project manager for the scheme, said: "We appreciate how well used this bridge is and would like to assure those that use it that we will do our best to complete this work as quickly as we can. This work is essential to ensure the safety of bridge users.

"Our first job will be to set up the site compound, which will be located on the eastern side of the bridge. Scaffolding will then be erected and attached to the bridge. We will work from east to west and the old timber decking will be removed in stages and 45 metres of new glass reinforced plastic decking with be laid."

To allow work to take place, the bridge will be shut from Monday, September 8 until Friday December, 18. A sign-posted diversion over the A67 Bridge will be in place during this period.

Temporary traffic lights will be located on the B6277, near Lartington Lane, and used when required, between Monday September 1 and Friday December 18, to enable the safe delivery and collection of materials to and from site.

Construction traffic will need access to the working area and to a site compound which will be located on the eastern side of the bridge.

Work is to be carried out by Interserve Construction Limited on behalf of Northumbrian Water, which is also working with Durham County Council to manage and minimise disruption and inconvenience.