I know that many residents are concerned about the impact of the closure of the bridge on the A422 at Farthinghoe, and I recognise the need for it to reopen as soon as is practically possible.

Northamptonshire County Council is working closely with all agencies to get the design and method of work approved, with all necessary permits and consents.

NCC had been investigating the possibility of opening the road at the end of the year to allow traffic to use the route again, but this has since been found to not be cost effective and in all probabilities would cause more damage to the bridge, whilst lengthening the time the full closure would affect local residents.

I have received a detailed response from Cllr Ian Morris, Cabinet Member for Transport, Highways & Environment at the County Council, which sets out in considerable detail the works being looked at as well as the rerouting of motorway and non-motorway traffic. You can read that letter here.

I will continue to follow this important matter closely on behalf of residents, and will provide further updates as soon as I can. However, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have a specific query or concern about the A422 closure through Farthinghoe.