Farmers in Solihull have warned that the closure of the region’s main bridge could cause serious disruption to agricultural traffic after tractors hit the road during this week’s convoy protests.
The demonstration centered around Burston Bridge, a historic bridge spanning the River Blyth. Campaigners say the bridge is essential for transporting machinery, livestock and produce between villages.
Local farmers argue that removing vehicular access will force heavy equipment to take longer and inappropriate routes, increasing costs and putting more pressure on already narrow lanes. Milk collection and contractor movement may also face further delays.
The bridge, built in 1859, has been under scrutiny since safety concerns were raised last year.
Solihull City Council now needs to decide whether to invest around £2 million in a replacement facility capable of carrying 40 tonnes of goods, or to make the building completely vehicle-free.
Rural bridges across the UK are increasingly facing weight restrictions and closures as aging infrastructure struggles to meet the demands of modern agricultural machinery and heavier transport vehicles.
More than 50 people gathered at Burston Bridge on Wednesday (February 11) as a convoy of tractors drove through the Hamptons of Arden and Knowle, highlighting the wide-ranging impact of the road closure on traffic.
Campaigners say the intersection serves as part of the rural road network relied on every day by farms, local businesses and emergency services.
A Solihull Council spokesperson said no decision had yet been taken regarding Burston Bridge and confirmed it was “engaging directly with local residents, farmers and business owners” as it considers its response to the consultation.
The full report will be presented at a future decision meeting, where ministers will decide on next steps.
For local farmers, the outcome will decide whether Burston Bridge remains a viable rural transport route or becomes another historic crossing point lost to modern agricultural traffic.
The dispute reflects broader concerns about rural bridge regulations across the region.
Lichfield, Burntwood and the Villages councilor Dave Robertson said ongoing restrictions at Chetwynd Bridge in Staffordshire were “having a huge impact on residents, local businesses and emergency access”.
Tamworth MP Sarah Edwards added that the regulations, introduced in October 2023, were having a “negative impact on the local economy and agricultural businesses” and risked leaving villages stranded in the event of flooding.
She said she had secured a meeting with relevant ministers to discuss reopening the route.
