Emergency repairs to take place after lorry crashed through barrier while historic bridge was letting boat through last night

‘Quick thinking’ staff on Sutton’s Bridge’s Cross Keys Bridge averted injuries after a lorry crashed through a barrier while the A17’s route over the River Nene was closed to vehicles for a boat to pass through.

Lincolnshire County Council say no-one was injured in the incident at around 7pm last night (Wednesday, March 14) and the boat passed through fine.

However emergency repairs need to be carried out on the barrier.

The work will start at 9.30am tomorrow (Friday) and last for up to five hours with temporary traffic lights in place.

Karen Cassar, assistant director of highways at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The traffic barrier on the bridge’s westbound carriageway was destroyed on Wednesday evening when a vehicle collided with it.

“Luckily, no one was seriously injured in the collision and the ship passing through wasn’t delayed – thanks to quick reactions from the bridge operators.

“Our plan is to replace the broken barrier tomorrow so it’s ready to use next time the bridge needs to be opened.

“Unfortunately, we’ll need to close the westbound-side of the bridge while we carry out these works. This is to ensure the safety of road users and our workforce.”

Karen added: “We encourage anyone planning to use the A17 between 9:30am and 2:30pm on Friday to leave extra time for their journeys as there will very likely be delays.

“I want to thank everyone in advance for their patience while we carry out these emergency repairs.”

An alternative route is advised via Wisbech on the A1101 and A47, back to the A17.