CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after securing listed status for a historic Cheshire bridge which they feared could be demolished as part of a huge new housing development.

Residents had raised fears over the fate of Borrows Bridge in Norton, Runcorn.

They set up an online campaign due to concerns it would be demolished to make way for a new Bridgewater Canal crossing.

The proposals were part of the Sandymoor and Wharford masterplan developed by government agency Homes England which owns the land.

The scheme includes Sandymoor South, a 16 hectare greenfield site capable of accommodating up to 250 homes, and Wharford Farm, a 26 hectare greenfield site with space for up to 600 properties.

Part of the plans include new vehicle access at Norton Bridge on to Windmill Hill East Avenue, Walsingham Drive.

Borrows Bridge – which provides a crossing to both sides of Red Brow Lane over the canal – has stood since 1766 but did not have listed status. Homes England said at the time it had ‘no plans’ to demolish it, but some local residents raised fears over its future.

Now following the work of campaigners, the bridge and the neighbouring hand-cranked crane are set to be designated as Grade II listed buildings of special architectural and historic interest, providing enhanced protections.

Campaign organiser Rik Cotterill said it had been a ‘nail-biting’ seven month wait to find out the application's fate.

He said: “The document has been on the Secretary of State’s desk for a while,  but I think she’s got quite a lot on her plate.

“Everyone has been super supportive. We’ve had emails and messages wondering what’s going on and people trying to see if they could help. It’s been stressful but I knew that we could do it.

“I just want to thank everyone for their support.”

A spokesman for Homes England, said: “Homes England is aware of the recent decision by the Secretary of State to grant grade II listed status to Borrows Bridge.

"As stated in 2021, as part of Homes England’s proposals for Wharford Farm, Borrows Bridge will provide walking and cycling access to the site, while a new canal bridge is proposed to be constructed to the immediate south of Borrows Bridge, providing vehicular and bus access.”