Cumbria Highways are being asked by a local MP to build a temporary bridge in Killington, to help relieve pressure on local businesses.
Local MP Tim Farron says five farms and several other local businesses are struggling because of the continued closure of Hallbeck Bridge due to December's floods.
A group of local residents have sourced a temporary bridge to replace the damaged one, but it need permission from Cumbria Highways to be installed.
But Mr Farron says Cumbria Highways are currently ruling out use of a temporary bridge, and are giving a timeframe of 12-18 months for the completion of the replacement bridge.
He said: “This is critical for local residents and businesses. The continued closure is cutting farmers off from their fields and businesses from their customers. Short trips to check livestock are now long detours – this is wasting time and money.
"At a time when local people are trying to fight back from the damage caused by the floods, it is essential that they are given the support they need. If this bridge remains closed for up to a year and a half, as currently planned, this will drive some businesses under. I’m calling on Cumbria Highways to work with local residents and business owners to find a solution to this problem.”