THE NEW and improved footbridge to Newbold Comyn in Leamington should be in place by November.
This was the long-awaited news from Warwick District Council who announced this week contractors were on site preparing the area for the delivery of the new pedestrian and cycle bridge linking Radford Road to Newbold Comyn country park.
The new bridge will be bigger and better than the existing one which had to be closed in August last year on safety grounds.
WDC has been working on a plan of action about how to fix the bridge ever since.
The council had hoped to be able to repair the existing bridge but following investigations with specialist contractors, a ‘quick fix’ solution to re-instating pedestrian access to Newbold Comyn had to be ruled out.
WDC was left with no option but to replace the bridge and decided, due to the fact the footbridge was also an essential piece of the National Cycle Network, now was the chance to upgrade it.
The council has undertaken a lengthy process of consultation with the Environment Agency regarding the design of a replacement bridge, and the timing of the works due to the restrictions in place to protect fish during the breeding season.
A team of contractors are currently undertaking piling works on site ahead of the construction of new bridge abutments. It is expected that the new bridge will be craned in during November, following which the team will set about completing the new footpaths and landscaping works,
WDC;s neighbourhood services spokesperson Coun Will Roberts said: “After a very long and complicated applications process, I am now delighted to say that it’s full steam ahead for local residents to get this vital access point reinstated.
“Having seen the new designs I am confident in saying that it will have been worth the wait with people living, working and going to school in the surrounding area benefitting from a much-improved wider bridge suitable for both pedestrians and cyclists.”
