THE council has confirmed a controversial 61-day road closure will no longer be going ahead.

There were plans in place to replace Bridge Farm Bridge which were due to start from June 5 for 61 days.

However, plans were scrapped following a consultation with councillors, Tolleshunt D'Arcy Parish Council, Maldon Conservation Team Residents and other Conservation Groups.

Essex Highways is now looking to re-line the structure of the bridge to prolong its life, instead of carrying out a full reconstruction.

Works are expected to commence later this year.

An Essex Highways spokesman said: “Our original plans were to replace Bridge Farm Bridge to increase the structural capacity and upgrade the parapets to provide road safety enhancements.

“Following consultation with Councillors, Tolleshunt D'Arcy Parish Council, Maldon Conservation Team Residents and other Conservation Groups, we have reviewed and revised the scope of works.

“We are now looking to re-line the structure, subject to necessary consents.

“Although this solution will not provide the upgraded parapets, it will increase the capacity of the structure and prolong the life of the structure.

“We anticipate this work occuring later this year, again subject to necessary consents being granted.”