The Old Powick Bridge near Worcester has been closed indefinitely after a partial collapse, and it will be inaccessible for the foreseeable future. The closure is due to damage caused by recent floods, which washed away part of the bridge’s foundation, making it unsafe for use. The Highways Service firm Ringway has placed cones along Old Road and blocked the pathway leading to Powick Roundabout to prevent access.

Diggers are being used to clear debris, including driftwood and tree trunks, from the River Theme near the bridge. Jon Fraser from Worcestershire County Council Highways Team stated that a full assessment will be conducted to determine the extent of repairs needed, and there is currently no estimated timescale for the bridge’s reopening. The collapse was attributed to the cumulative impact of several significant floods in recent years, with no prior indications of the bridge’s vulnerability.