A key decision on whether a vital bridge will remain open looks set to be made after next month's local elections.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service first revealed the future of Barston Bridge, which spans the River Blythe, had been plunged into doubt due to safety concerns last year. 

The bridge dates back to 1859 and carries Barston Lane over the river to the east of the village with more than 1,000 vehicles travelling across it daily.

The council's options are to replace the bridge with a structure capable of "full highway loading at 40 tonnes capacity" – which would cost £2 million – or close it to traffic, leaving it accessible only to pedestrians and cyclists.

The council launched a consultation period giving residents the chance to have their say which ended in February.

And a campaign has been gathering pace which included a rolling convoy protest to demonstrate the impact a closure of an historic bridge could have.

At the latest full Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council meeting on April 14 Jeremy Emmett, the chairman of Barston Parish Council, made a deputation to councillors pleading for it to stay open.

"Barston Bridge is not just simply a piece of infrastructure it is a vital link," he said.

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"For many years it has served residents, farmers and local businesses effectively.

"It is a functioning asset that continues to play a crucial role in our local network.

"Closing this bridge does not solve a problem, it creates several more. The reality is vehicles will be pushed onto already busy routes in Knowle and Hampton.

"We understand there are financial pressures but what we are asking for is a balanced and transparent approach.

"Where is the exploration of alternatives, the clear long term plan?

"Why does the conversation seem to move so quickly towards closure without that work being done?

"This bridge has served us for generations – with sensible management it can continue to do so.

"Please listen to the community."

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Cllr Ken Hawkins, cabinet portfolio holder for environment and infrastructure, responded saying: "The principle is we want the bridge to stay open.

"That is the default position.

"We are clearly aware of the strength of the feeling of the parish council and the local community. No decision has been made yet.

"We will be requesting external funding if we can go down that route to keep that bridge open."

He added the next step would be for the outcome of the consultation to be presented to a stronger communities and neighbourhood services scrutiny board meeting early in the new municipal year, following the elections.