A BARROW road could be closed for several months because of an unsafe railway bridge.

A short section of Manor Road, just past Furness Abbey, has been closed by highways bosses following an inspection.

The bridge goes over the railway line and is just before the steep, winding section of road which leads to Abbotswood.

A lengthy diversion in place goes via Long Lane, Newton Road, and Parkhouse Road.

Access to Furness Abbey is not affected from Barrow.

The railway line under the bridge connects Roose with Dalton.

A spokesman for Cumbria County Council said: "We have had to close a short length of Manor Road in Barrow, just to the south of Furness Abbey. The road will be closed to all vehicles but pedestrian access will be maintained.

"A specialist inspection of Manor Road Bridge has revealed that this structure is in a poor condition and should not be used by vehicles on the road carried by the bridge.

"The nature of the defects would suggest that the closure may be several months.

"We are in discussions with the bridge owners about this matter. Once we have more understanding from them of the issues involved with the bridge and its repair, we will letter-drop the local residents and businesses to provide further information regarding the reopening of the road.

"Cumbria County Council recognises these temporary restrictions will cause local disruption but this emergency measure is necessary to ensure the safety of local residents and all road users.

"Our priority remains the safety of the public, contractors and our staff as we work to maintain and ensure the standards of our roads."

The Mail has contacted Network Rail for comment.