PUPILS now have a safer route to school thanks to a new bridge across a brook in Warwick.
The new foot and cycle bridge over Gog Brook is open after two years of building work and was requested by Coun John Holland, Warwickshire County Council (WCC) ward member for Warwick West.
The driving force behind the new bridge was to stop children using a small and treacherous cut-through path on their way to and from Aylesford School and Newburgh Primary School.
This route caused a number of issues including one pupil falling into the brook and breaking his ankle. The new bridge, which can comfortably accommodate both foot and cycle traffic, now provides safe and speedy passage for pupils.
Anna Scopes, Deputy Headteacher at Aylesford School, said: “The school is delighted that the local authority is investing in our local community. The Gog bridge will help parents, carers and pupils safely access Aylesford School and the surrounding area.”
Mrs Simpkins, Headteacher at Newburgh Primary School, added: “Using the bridge will make the journey to our school easier and safer for our families who live on the Chase Meadow Estate.”
While Coun Wallace Redford, WCC spokesperson for transport and planning, said: “Gog Bridge is a fantastic piece of engineering that we are very proud to have been able to deliver for local residents in Warwick.
“At Warwickshire County Council we are committed to ensuring residents are supported through excellent transport infrastructure and that goes beyond our highways and motorised vehicle travel to enabling people to choose active travel – walking, cycling and scooting – as they travel round our towns.
“Gog Bridge will not only be of benefit to school pupils going to and from Aylesford School and Newburgh Primary School but will also provide a safe and quick short cut route for all residents in the area.”
Coun Holland added: “Gog bridge is a much much-needed safety measure for pupils going to Newburgh Primary School in one direction and Aylesford school in the opposite direction.
“The brook can present a real hazard when it is in flood and the new bridge will give pupils and residents a safe crossing point all year round.”
