Burston footbridge will be replaced

A damaged footbridge in Burston is set for a major upgrade with a new and improved structure.

The bridge, which forms part of the Sandon and Burston Public Footpath 36 and the popular Two Saints Way walking route, was closed for safety reasons after being dislodged into the River Trent.

Staffordshire County Council's engineers recovered the damaged bridge from the water in May and, following detailed offsite inspections, it was determined that repairing the existing structure would not be cost-effective. Instead, the council will be installing a new and improved bridge.

The new structure is being designed to be more accessible and longer lasting. Funding for the replacement has already been secured so proposals have been submitted to the Environment Agency for approval. Once approved, the new bridge can be ordered with the aim of installation taking place next year.

In the meantime, arrangements are being made to install a temporary bridge so that the footpath can be safely reopened to the public by the end of this year. This will take place once permission has been given from the Environment Agency and weather conditions allow.

Until then, Footpath 36 between the River Trent and Burston Lane will remain closed to keep everyone safe, with site preparation for the temporary bridge set to start soon.

Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:

"We remain fully committed to getting a bridge back in place and the footpath safely reopened by the end of the year. Although our initial hope was to repair the existing bridge, closer inspection revealed that this would not be cost-effective or long-lasting.

"The great news is that we already have the funding secured for a brand-new, bigger, and more accessible bridge that will serve the community for many years to come. Careful planning and design work are essential to ensure the new bridge is of the highest quality, which will take some time.

"Meanwhile, we're putting in a temporary bridge so that walkers can enjoy the footpath again as soon as possible. I'd like to thank residents and walkers for their ongoing patience and understanding, and I'd urge everyone to respect the closure signs and barriers in place - they are there to keep you safe."