THE LONG-AWAITED new Radford Road bridge to Newbold Comyn was lowered into place earlier today.
The 3.5-metre-wide pedestrian and cycle bridge was constructed off-site before being transported to Leamington by road and then carefully slotted into place by crane, between the newly created abutments.
Warwick District Council contractors will now complete new footpaths and landscaping works, with the bridge expected to be opened to the public before Christmas.
WDC neighbourhood serives spokesman Will Roberts said: “Following a very long, complicated and technically challenging journey, we are absolutely delighted to see the arrival of a much-improved bridge, allowing us to finally re-instate this important access point for pedestrians and cyclists.”
“We are very much looking forward to opening it to local residents at the earliest opportunity.”
The old bridge had to be closed in August last year on safety grounds. 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, it provided the perfect opportunity to upgrade it.
The council undertook a lengthy process of consultation with the Environment Agency regarding the design of the replacement bridge, and the installation works had to be carefully timed due to restrictions in place to protect fish during the breeding season.
The closure has meant a long detour for the many people who regularly used the bridge to access the popular country park and nature reserve.
Visit WDC’s website for further information.
