CAMPAIGNERS have hit out at a decision to place 11 tonnes of concrete on a bridge in a “Russian army-style" closure amid safety concerns.

The Save Our Bridge group claimed the decision proves the 126-year-old Boxted Bridge will be able to safely carry pedestrians over the River Stour.

The structure connects Wick Road and Lower Farm Road over the River Stour in the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It was shut by Essex Highways last week after serious fears were highlighted over its deteriorating condition and loading capacity.

Gazette: No entry - concrete blocks have been placed on Boxted BridgeNo entry - concrete blocks have been placed on Boxted Bridge (Image: Save Our Bridge)

Gazette: Access - the concrete blocks on Boxted BridgeAccess - the concrete blocks on Boxted Bridge (Image: Save Our Bridge)

Engineers are now conducting further investigations at the Wick Road junction with Lower Farm Road and Sky Hall Hill and the site remains closed.

But Dedham Vale Society chairman Charles Clover said the placement of the concrete blocks is proof the bridge is still fit for purpose.

Mr Clover said: “11 tonnes of concrete has been dumped on the bridge which is allegedly unsafe and now closed even to pedestrians and cyclists.

“This does not make sense. If it can stand 11 tonnes, it can take a couple of walkers or pedestrians.

Gazette: Fight - campaigners stand in front of the now closed-off Boxted BridgeFight - campaigners stand in front of the now closed-off Boxted Bridge (Image: Save Our Bridge)

“This is a kind of Russian army, Donbas-style, tank-trap solution to a problem.”

Save Our Bridge has attracted more than 6,000 supporters since it was launched to protect the historic structure, which was built in 1897.

A statement from local dignitaries and campaigners said Essex Highways has to prove the passage of cyclists and pedestrians on the bridge would bring about “catastrophic collapse”.

It reads: “The assertion of the risk of imminent catastrophic collapse loses all credibility with the imposition of 11 tonnes of concrete blocks on the bridge.

Gazette: Defiant - Dedham Vale Society chairman Charles CloverDefiant - Dedham Vale Society chairman Charles Clover (Image: Newsquest)

“These are not only heavier than any pedestrian or cyclist traffic but heavier than the vast majority of motor vehicle traffic.”

Essex County Council’s highways boss Lee Scott has defended the closure.

He said: “For the safety of the public, this bridge has been closed to pedestrians and vehicles on the advice of expert bridge inspectors.

“We have always said that on matters of safety, expert engineering opinion should always outweigh any other.”