Cumberland Council is carrying out essential slope repair works along the B5289 near Ashness Bridge, Keswick, to stabilise the road and improve long-term safety for all users.
Update - Wednesday 17 December 2025:
Cumberland Council would like to provide an update on the ongoing works near Ashness Bridge, which form part of our efforts to protect the natural beauty of Derwent Water.
At present, all work on site has been paused and will not resume until 26 January 2026. This temporary halt is due to recent periods of severe weather, which have created unsafe working conditions for the contractor’s team. Safety remains our top priority, and it is essential that work only continues when conditions allow for it to be carried out responsibly.
We are currently awaiting an updated programme from the contractor and will share further details as soon as they are confirmed. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to ensure this important project is completed safely and to the highest standard.
Project details:
The work will repair the slope supporting the road, which was damaged during Storm Desmond. These repairs will help ensure that this popular and picturesque route around Derwent Water remains safe and resilient for years to come.
The project will be delivered by Metcalfes Plant Hire.
The work will consist of holes at the bottom of the slope being filled using a combination of stone from the shoreline and imported material. This method will help prevent further erosion and strengthen the embankment beneath the road.
Cllr Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“This essential work will make sure the road remains safe for residents, visitors, and businesses who rely on it every day and when they visit the area. These slope repairs will strengthen the area, protect the road from further damage, and help maintain one of the Lake District’s well-used travel routes.
“We understand that any works can cause some disruption, and we thank everyone in advance for their patience and cooperation while we carry out these important improvements.”
For more information, please visit cumberland.gov.uk or contact the Highways Hotline on 0300 373 3736.
Cumberland Council thanks residents, businesses, and road users for their patience and cooperation while these essential improvements are carried out.