The public is being urged to avoid Chatham’s Black Bridge after the structure was set on fire.
Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services said firefighters responded to the former railway bridge near the Thames Grove Conservation Area on Wednesday shortly after 6 p.m., to find railway ties and the wooden decking on fire.
The blaze was quickly extinguished but it has caused serve damage to the bridge, leaving large gaps in the decking.
The integrity bridge has become unsound and residents are asked to stay off the bridge due to safety concerns.
The Black Bridge is private property and any access to the area is considered trespassing, fire officials said.