Loftus community 'delighted' over flood-hit bridge repairs

A bridge that left residents in a small Teesside community cut off when it was damaged by flooding is to be repaired.

Gaskell Lane Bridge, in Loftus, was destroyed by a five-foot tidal wave in September 2013 - isolating elderly residents from six homes.

Kathleen Himsworth, who opened up her private land to allow more access, said she was "absolutely delighted".

Since the flooding, residents have had to rely on a temporary track diversion for access.

Northumbrian Water said finding a permanent solution had been "complicated" as the stone bridge was privately owned.

Wastewater director, Richard Warneford, said it was "great news" for the residents who have had years of "worry and inconvenience".

Ms Himsworth, of Loftus Mill, said: "It has been a horrendous two years. I just hope they can get it done quickly before the winter weather comes."

An agreement has been reached for Redcar and Cleveland Council to repair the bridge and for Northumbrian Water to install a small pumping station and new sewer pipes into the structure.

Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland Labour MP Tom Blenkinsop said it was a "great relief" for those affected by the floods.

The repair work, which will cost about £100,000, will begin in late autumn and be completed by early next year.