A bridge that was shut at short notice – splitting a south of Scotland town in two – is to reopen to traffic.

The Kirkcudbright Bridge over the River Dee was closed on March 21, just hours after a safety inspection.

Dumfries and Galloway Council said a single-lane reopening for cars and small vans would take place on or before 2 July.

In the meantime it will remain shut to all vehicles but can be used by pedestrians and cyclists.

Concerns have been raised about the impact of the closure with residents in one area cut off from the town centre.

They face a detour of about five miles (8km) to make the journey by car – via the Thomas Telford-built Tongland Bridge – or have to cross the Kirkcudbright Bridge on foot.

Dumfries and Galloway Council said the decision to reopen the bridge followed “rigorous technical assessment and analysis by the council’s engineering team and its engineering consultant, Mott MacDonald”.

A three-tonne weight limit and width restrictions will be in force when the bridge reopens.

A new 20mph speed limit will also reduce the impact on the bridge.

Ian Blake, who chairs the council’s economy and infrastructure committee, said he was pleased they would soon be able to reopen the crossing.

“I would like to thank the public, residents and businesses for their patience and understanding while this important analysis and assessment work has been carried out,” he said.

“The reopening of Kirkcudbright Bridge will mark an important step in balancing public safety, heritage infrastructure and community connectivity.”

He said they remained committed to ensuring it met the needs of everyone “living, working and visiting the area”.

The council said it was working on options for a new bridge as a long-term solution.