THE county council has explained to residents why the "beautiful" old lanterns have been replaced on Stourport Bridge.

People took to the We Love Stourport Past and Present Day Facebook page to question why the lanterns were changed. 

A resident said in a post on the page: "What has happened to our beautiful old lamps on the Stourport bridge? Tragic to lose them".

Worcestershire County Council has responded by highlighting that safety concerns were raised during a safety inspection of the lanterns.

They have now been replaced with a "heritage-style" LED light, but the council also confirmed that the current lanterns will be replaced by new ones supplied by the original lantern manufacturer.

The work will require a formal planning application.

One of the new lanterns on Stourport BridgeOne of the new lanterns on Stourport Bridge (Image: We Love Stourport Past and Present Day)

Responding directly to residents in a post, Worcestershire County Council said: "We wanted to respond to your questions regarding the changes in lanterns on Stourport Bridge.

"Sadly, the original lanterns raised some safety concerns during a routine inspection.

"To address these concerns the lanterns were replaced with a more modern, heritage-style LED light to ensure that the bridge pavement and road remained safely lit.

"These current lanterns will be replaced with new ones that will be supplied by the original lantern manufacturer.

"This work will require a formal planning application and we are in discussion with our colleagues in the district council regarding this.

"We recognise the historical charm and listed status of Stourport Bridge and our priority is to ensure this is maintained".