BUSINESSES face losing thousands of pounds after it was announced that a bridge would have to be closed for repair work.

Shopkeepers in Barnard Castle, County Durham, are angry that the County Bridge will be shut for a fortnight this summer while structural engineers carry out the work.

A low-loader lorry struck the 16th Century bridge almost two weeks ago, and extensive work is needed to make it safe.

Although the bridge is currently open to vehicles, the damage caused by the impact means that materials will have to be replaced.

The closure is expected to have a major impact on businesses in the town, some of which face losing more than £4,000 each week while the repairs are carried out.

Perry Clifton, who owns the Beavers restaurant in the town, is prepared to sue the lorry driver's insurance company for loss of earnings.

He said: "I want the work carried out as soon as possible. I face losing thousands of pounds each week while the repairs are made.

"I think a lot of businesses in the town will feel the same way."

Chris Dauber, of Teesdale Marketing, which represents the Teesdale business community, said the closure would have a huge impact on trade. He said: "We realise the bridge has to be closed to be repaired, but there should have been more thought about when it should be closed."

A spokesman for Durham County Council said that the bridge would be closed for approximately two weeks during the school summer holiday period.