I'm aware of the significant disruption and frustration of isolated residents and I've raised concerns
A county councillor has called for a rethink over the lengthy closure of a canal bridge in Burnley.
Usman Arif is concerned that shutting the Barden Lane / Reedley Marina Bridge over the Leeds/Liverpool Canal for five weeks is isolating residents. The closure is for repairs after a September vehicle strike.
Join our new WhatsApp Community to get the latest news and top stories from across Lancashire directly to your phone.
Independent Cllr Arif who represents Burnley North-East division on Lancashire County Council said: “I am aware of the significant disruption and frustration being experienced by residents following the closure of Barden Lane at Reedley Marina Bridge, and I fully understand the strength of feeling locally.
“Since receiving the amended Temporary Traffic Regulation Order on February 18 – which for the first time confirms a complete stop to vehicular access, including for emergency vehicles, while the repair works are carried out – I raised immediate concerns about the impact of the closure — particularly the loss of access for residents and the serious implications for emergency response.
“I subsequently escalated these concerns to the chief executive of Lancashire County Council and the director of highways, making clear that the current arrangements are not acceptable and that urgent mitigation must be explored.
“The closure directly affects approximately 600 households – including residents on the Lower Manor Estate, Barden Lane, Marina View and Birch Road – all of whom rely on Barden Lane as their sole vehicular access route.
“Residents are now being forced to make lengthy diversion journeys for even short local trips, with a disproportionate impact on elderly residents, people with medical needs, families, and those who do not drive.
“Some residents have reported that journeys which would normally take around five minutes are now taking up to 40 minutes.
“Residents have also rightly questioned why vehicular access was safely maintained for several months using temporary traffic lights following the damage to the bridge in September 2025, yet is now considered impossible during the repair phase.
“Residents understand that repairs must take place, but they expect better planning, clearer communication, and proportionate mitigation. I am pressing senior officers to explore practical options, including whether managed or limited access can be provided safely.”
A spokesman for Lancashire County Council said: “We understand the disruption and frustration this closure is causing for residents who rely on Barden Lane, and we recognise the impact the diversion is having on day‑to‑day journeys.
“The bridge is closed from February 18 to March 23 while essential repairs are completed following damage caused by vehicle impacts. Inspections confirmed there is not enough space to safely allow vehicles to pass during the works, meaning a full closure is necessary. Emergency services were notified in advance and an agreed diversion route is in place.”
The Canal and Rivers Trust has been approached for comment.