NWA promises temporary fix for Llandewey bridge problem

The pleas for a reliable route granting access to the community of Llandewey, St Thomas, were heard as residents can expect a detour to be constructed with works starting shortly.

"There is as detour that work is going to be started on in terms of fixing it up so as to make sure persons have proper access. Persons should expect to see a suitable detour in place very shortly," said Stephen Shaw, manager of communications and customer services at the National Works Agency.

Additionally, procurements are being made for the reconstruction of the bridge.

"We are going to be doing the permanent work which is to reconstruct the bridge, but there is a process we have to go through. A contract is already being procured but it has to go to Cabinet for approval," Shaw told THE STAR.

Residents in the community were left displaced after the bridge collapsed more than a week ago.

When THE STAR visited the community last Monday, persons revealed that their livelihoods were being immensely affected. Some were forced to trod miles to their homes, businesses slowed, and many persons were barred from leaving the community to get to work.

Residents said the bridge had been defective for some time, but the numerous complaints had been neglected by the authorities.

The absence of the bridge saw drivers having to take their vehicles through private property. Claudette Delpratt-Reid's property is among those being affected.

"I not really happy about it because something should have been done with the bridge. For a very long time it has been like that and citizens have tried to patch it up. We shouldn't have to wait until it comes to this," said Delpratt-Reid. "But on the other hand, seeing that I'm helping out my other community members, I allow it to happen."