A new bridge could be built across the River Thames near Witney to save a 13th-century structure.

Oxfordshire County Council is asking the public for its views on plans for a new crossing at Newbridge, which would carry the A415 270 yards away from the existing bridge.

Studies have shown the arch crossing to be weak and, according to planning laws, cannot be modified or replaced.

However, there are concerns that the project, which could cost up to £8m, will make traffic worse for nearby villages Standlake and Northmoor.

County councillor Charles Mathew said: “I think the suffering of the local residents must be seriously considered and not dismissed as incidental.

“I don’t think there is any doubt about the plans encouraging more traffic than before the 18-tonne limit.

“Oxfordshire County Council is adamant these plans will happen, but I say this will turn High Street in Standlake into a motorway, without motorway conditions.

“I respect the fact that from an economic point of view, the county council needs to make sure that it’s usable to the people.”

Mr Mathew would like to see lorries diverted to the A40 and A34 instead, with the existing bridge reinforced. An 18-tonne weight limit was placed on the ancient monument three years ago.

Although it is currently considered to be safe, it is not thought to be sustainable in the long term.

The county council claims the weight limit has caused heavy lorries to use alternative routes through other small villages, which would only get worse if the limit were increased.

The new bridge would be designed to take all classes of heavy goods vehicles. Last week, an exhibition was held at the nearby Rose Revived pub, outlining the council’s plans to re-route the A415 270 yards away from the bridge.

County Hall spokesman Paul Smith said: “We urge people from the area and those who use the A415 to have their say.”

The closing date for comments is Thursday, December 24.

Terry Kirkpatrick, 65, who lives half a mile from the bridge in Moreton, said: “There is a problem of putting the bridge 270 yards away from the existing one as it’s right on one of the most sensitive floodplains on the Thames. “There are other routes less prone to flooding and there are other routes, for example across the Swinford bridge.”

However, Philip Hawtin, chairman of Cumnor Parish Council, supports plans for a new bridge.

He said: “The various bridges over the River Thames are necessary and since one can’t be repaired, we support the building of a new one.”

The bridge dates back to the 13th century.

It is thought it could be the oldest original bridge in Oxfordshire.

It has had no significant modifications since its construction about 750 years ago.

The bridge is a multi-span gothic arch construction.

Newbridge is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, which means it benefits from statutory protection designed to preserve its historic importance.

It may not be altered or strengthened.