Calls to protect landmark bridge after vandalism

A council leader is calling for one of North Lincolnshire's most distinctive landmarks to get greater protection to prevent it suffering further damage.

Rob Waltham has written to the Environment Agency (EA), which maintains Horkstow Bridge, urging immediate action following reports of vandalism and safety concerns.

Waltham said: "Residents are understandably worried. This is an important historic structure and residents do not want to see it damaged any further through vandalism or neglect."

The EA said the site was subject to inspections by its officers and safety measures were under review. In the meantime, it urged the public to "act responsibly".

The Grade II listed bridge has been closed since early 2025 after it was deemed unsafe following a structural inspection.

In October, it was announced bridge repairs were put on hold until more funding was found.

North Lincolnshire Council said residents had raised concerns about the removal of fencing that was initially put up to prevent access.

"If security measures are being breached, there is a risk that people could gain access to a structure that has already been deemed unsafe," Waltham added.

The council said river users had been unable to access the bridge for months and there had been "little information" about when repairs would take place and access restored.

According to Historic England, Horkstow Bridge was built between 1834-35 by engineer Sir John Rennie - and is believed to be one of the earliest unaltered suspension bridges in the country.

In his letter to the EA, Waltham called for the site to be fully secured.

He also asked for an update on the bridge's structural condition, when it would be restored and when access for river users would be reinstated.

Waltham said: "Residents have been patient, but that is understandably wearing thin – they deserve clear answers.

"We all want to see Horkstow Bridge protected and restored for future generations. That means securing it properly now, preventing further damage and providing residents with the clarity they deserve about what happens next."

The EA said: "Repeated efforts to gain access to Horkstow Bridge are acts of vandalism and pose a serious safety risk.

"We understand the community's frustration at not being able to access this bridge and we are leading efforts to reopen and restore this structure after it was deemed unsafe."

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