A bridge dating back to the 16th century which has had severe water damage is still in use for vehicles.

Oxfordshire County Council has confirmed Heyford Bridge in Lower Heyford, near Bicester, can still be used by motorists. 

This is despite the impact of water damage to the structure which is Grade II listed.

As a precaution, temporary safety barriers have been installed to reduce the width of the carriageway.

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A county council statement said: "Maintenance teams are satisfied there is no need to close the road and no weight limits are required.

"Oxfordshire County Council intends to carry out the stonework reconstruction work this summer - at the same time as it undertakes scheduled repairs to the bridge.

Bicester Advertiser: Lower Heyford Bridge is still in operation Lower Heyford Bridge is still in operation (Image: Oxfordshire County Council)

"The council will work closely with colleagues at Cherwell District Council for the required listed building consent for the proposed work to the Grade II listed bridge."

It comes after the bridge suffered a collapse last week. 

The structure carries the B4030 Station Road over the River Cherwell between Middle Barton and Lower Heyford.

Bicester Advertiser: The bridge suffered a collapse last weekThe bridge suffered a collapse last week (Image: Oxfordshire County Council)

The bridge has been in disrepair for a number of years, with parish councillors and local householders calling for weight restrictions to be applied.

This is amid frequent use of the bridge by heavy goods vehicles and other large vehicles.