Campaign launched to restore Union Chain Bridge
Calls have been made for the improvement of one of the world's oldest suspension bridges, BBC News reports.
The Union Chain Bridge was built in 1820, connecting Fishwick in Berwickshire, Scotland, to Horncliffe in England. It is among the oldest suspension bridges that still carries traffic.
However, there is concern over its structure, due to recent deterioration. Back in 2007, the Grade I listed bridge was closed for a year due to structural problems caused in high winds.
The Berwick Preservation Trust, the body who has the ability to grant funding, is still deliberating whether or not to participate in the project. Chairman, Jamie Andrew said if the Trust were to get involved, the future maintenance of the bridge would lay with Northumberland County Council and Scottish Borders Council.
Anxious local people have launched a campaign for the restoration of the landmark, a task that would require the skills of talented individuals, perhaps derived via an engineering recruitment agency.
Heather Robson, one of the local campaigners told the Berwick Advertiser that the bridge deserved better: "It's an iconic structure and one we should be very proud of, but for some reason it's been left to slip into this sorry state of disrepair.
"It's not only important for people trying to get from A to B," she continued, "but on a higher level it's of such historical importance that it surely merits saving which is why we're so keen to get something done."