A Grade II listed bridge close to the ruins of one of North Yorkshire’s most historic places of worship is to undergo major repairs to ensure it can continue to provide a key route for traffic.

Located on the Cleveland Way National Trail, Rievaulx Bridge in Rievaulx will be closed to traffic from Monday, July 3, for 13 weeks.

The bridge is near to the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, which was the first Cistercian monastery in the North of England and was founded in the 12th century by a group of monks from Clairvaux Abbey in France. The abbey’s ruins are now overseen by English Heritage.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Keane Duncan, said: “This is a very popular road due to its location near to Rievaulx Abbey.

“The repairs are essential to maintain the safety of the bridge for the use of residents, and visitors for many years to come.

“We would like to take this opportunity to apologise in advance for any disruption that this may cause.”

During the works, a pedestrian footbridge will be installed to allow continued access. In addition, advanced warning and diversion signs will be in place.

The repairs include strengthening the load capacity of the bridge by constructing a concrete saddle across its three spans. This process requires the removal of the road surface and fill material which means it must be closed to traffic.

A section of stonework will be taken down and rebuilt using existing and new stone.

The bridge was constructed after a medieval crossing was destroyed by a flood in 1754.

Cllr George Jabbour, who represents the Helmsley and Sinnington division on North Yorkshire Council, added: “I know that our officers have done everything possible to minimise potential disturbance, including the plans to install a pedestrian footbridge.”