The council looks after more than 300 highway bridges, subways, drainage culverts and other structures. Some bridges and structures are the responsibility of other authorities such as:
- Highways England (motorways and trunk roads)
- Highways England (historical railways estate formerly looked after by BRB (Residuary) Ltd)
- Network Rail (railways)
- Environment Agency (main rivers)
Some bridges are privately owned.
The council's bridges have a general inspection every three years and a detailed inspection every nine years. Special inspections may be carried out as necessary. We also carry out underwater inspections as required. Maintenance work is planned on the basis of these inspections.
We investigate damage from vehicle collision, storm damage, or other causes as soon as possible. In the case of damage by vehicles, reporting the vehicle details may help us to claim the cost of the repairs to the bridge or structure.
Bridges that are not owned or maintained by the council are given a superficial inspection every three years. Those responsible will be advised of anything that requires further attention or investigation following these inspections.