The bridge over the Loire, in Iguerande (Saône-et-Loire) was closed in emergency at the end of September, after the revelation of a meaningful weakening of the foundations. But some users continue to borrow it, without being aware of the risks.
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“If you close it, it’s as there is a real danger”insists André Accary, President (Les Républicains) of the department of Saône-et-Loire. Since Friday, September 26, the Pont sur la loire in Iguerande, on the border of saône-et-Loire and the Loire, has been closed for the risk of collapse.More “This weekend, people had kidnapped the barriers to go to the bridge, when it is extremely dangerous”adds André Accary.
These people put their lives in danger. the bridge must remain closed for the time of the work.
President (LR) of the department of Saône-et-Loire
The department’s services regularly inspect the 1,900 bridges in Saône-et-Loire. Controlled two years ago, that of iguerande was to undergo an interview scheduled in 2029. But the events accelerated on Friday: divers,who came to examine the submerged supports of the bridge,discovered that the work was in a very worrying state.
Bridge Closure Disrupts farmer’s access to Herd in Saône-et-Loire
A bridge closure in Iguerande, Saône-et-Loire, is causing significant hardship for a local farmer who is now forced to travel 30 kilometers to reach his herd, despite them being only 200 meters away as the crow flies. The detour,via Marcigny along the D122 and D982 roads,is a substantial increase in travel distance.
The bridge was closed due to necessary repairs to its piles. According to a press release from the Saône-et-Loire department,the work is contingent on the flow of the Loire river.Following the emergency repairs, a three-month surveillance period will be implemented to ensure the bridge’s stability before any consideration is given to reopening it.
Currently, the department estimates the bridge will remain closed to all traffic – vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists – until spring 2026. The municipal road passing under the bridge is also closed.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by rural communities when critical infrastructure is compromised. The farmer expressed his frustration, stating, “Every day, I have to be 30 kilometers to see my animals wich are 200 meters as the crow flies!”