Don't Cross the Bridge until ........

A much better day prompted us to take a walk over the top of the moor and  down to the village of Copley. 

Copley, created for Edward Ackroyd, is one of the 'model estates' built for wealthy industrialists in the region and is now a Conservation Area.

The original wooden toll bridge across the Calder was rebuilt in 1851 with the current stone-arched construction which has stood the test of time for over 160 years.

Sadly, during yesterday's floods the raging waters reached above the arch placing pressure on the roadway and parapet section. It looks like the arch has partly collapsed causing a huge tear in the roadway. 

The bridge, which carries the road, gas, electric and telephone supplies was sealed with police tape. The local constabulary were patrolling wandering about on the bank in the sunshine to prevent anyone from crossing.

I have just been messaged on Twitter the news that the bridge has totally collapsed :(

Previous blip  of the toll house next to the bridge. The occupiers now face a 4.5 mile detour to get across the river