Acute danger! Herrenseebrücke in Waren suddenly completely closed
The Herrenseebrücke in Waren (Müritz) was closed to traffic after visible damage. Find out more about the background and exams.

Acute danger! Herrenseebrücke in Waren suddenly completely closed
The Herrenseebrücke in Waren (Müritz) remains closed for the time being. On Friday morning, the responsible traffic authority decided to close the bridge to traffic. This decision came after a recent structural inspection, which revealed worrying longitudinal cracks on the underside of the bridge. Particularly noticeable were the cracks over the railway track, which indicate possible damage to the tendons. This increases the risk of failure (Nordkurier reports).
The inspection also revealed that prestressing steel that was at risk of stress corrosion cracking had been installed. The bridge is also provided with a crack-bridging coating. The visibility of these cracks is a cause for concern and the structural inspector immediately recommended that the bridge be closed. Waren's mayor Norbert Möller (SPD) followed the experts' advice after a fruitful discussion with those responsible from the building authority. As an important infrastructural point in the city, the safety of the bridge is of utmost importance.
Background to the bridge test
The need for such a test is supported by the legal regulations, in particular DIN 1076. This regulates the regular inspection of bridges to ensure their stability and suitability for traffic. During these tests, which are usually carried out every six years, the structure, bearings and transitions are checked for cracks, corrosion and material fatigue (Biberger explains).
The inspectors use modern technologies such as drones, endoscopes or mobile work platforms to reach even hard-to-reach places. The results of such tests are not only important for immediate safety, but are also crucial for planning future renovation work. Ultimately, early detection of damage ensures that no unnecessary risks arise for road users.
Responsibility of municipalities and outlook
The responsibility for road safety lies with the municipalities, which must ensure that all bridges are in perfect condition. Neglects could not only have legal consequences, but also endanger the safety of citizens (DEKRA emphasizes).
The Herrenseebrücke will remain closed until further notice while further investigations into the condition of the structure are to be initiated. Mayor Möller asks residents and road users to understand this necessary measure. Safety is the top priority, and in this case the intervention is essential to protect people in goods.