Work set for Corby's Geddington Road bridge after HGV ban
Work could start in February to repair a weak bridge in Northamptonshire that has been closed to HGVs for a year.
Restrictions were put in place in January 2011 in Geddington Road, Corby, preventing vehicles weighing more than seven tonnes from crossing.
It means that HGVs have to take a three-mile diversion.
Bridge owner Tata Steel said a design for the work had been presented to and approved by Northamptonshire County Council.
In a statement, the company said it was now in the process of being detailed by engineers.
It added: "We look forward to the matter being resolved for everyone's benefit."
Northamptonshire County Council said it was working closely with Tata Steel to get the bridge fixed.
A spokesman said: "A proposed programme of work was provided by Tata which states that work starts on site in February and we have recently contacted them to confirm this date will be met."
Businesses in the area said trade has been affected by the restrictions.
John Farrell, the owner of Big Jon's Cafe, which relies on business from lorry drivers, said: "We have really suffered over the last 12 months, takings have been down by about 50%.
"If it wasn't for the local businesses supporting me, I would be out of business."
The bridge is expected to cost more than £1m to repair. It could also mean that the road would be completely closed to traffic while work takes place.