A contractor has been appointed to build the new A46 bridge at Merrywalks.

Following extensive negotiations to develop the most cost effective and efficient way to construct the bridge, Carrilion plc has now been awarded the contract.

Work is planned to start week commencing May 3rd.

The bridge is a vital part of the Cotswold Canals Project and when finished it will improve traffic flow through the town and encourage people to visit.

The project will begin with construction of a temporary road to bypass the site and keep traffic moving.

This will make use of the old Wallbridge Bridge over the canal, which was cut off in 1980s when Dr Newton’s Way was built.

The bridge will be opened to traffic around mid November in order to ensure no traffic delays over Christmas period.

Work will continue off-road but this will not affect traffic and the project will be completed in March 2011.

Clearly worded signs will be placed on all main routes leading to the town in an effort to cut down the number of lorries using it as a through route.

Traffic modelling has demonstrated that diverting 30% of drivers along other routes will minimise delays at peak times and it is hoped the signed diversions will do that.

The project is being led by Gloucestershire County Council with funding coming from both the county council and Stroud District Council as part of the Canal Project.

Cllr Stan Waddington, cabinet member for environment, said: “I am pleased that work is now able to start on the bridge project as it is such an important part of the vision for Stroud.

“When complete the bridge will be a crucial part of the new infrastructure and will help traffic move far more easily around the town.

“There have been some delays on the start of this project while the finer details of the scheme were ironed out, but we’re still on course for opening in November as planned.

“Gloucestershire County Council is committed to aiding regeneration in Stroud and this major project will be the catalyst for that.”

Paul Coupe, Stroud District Council's Canal Project Manager, said: "This will really show that the canal project is fast becoming reality.

“We plan to take advantage of the bridge project by getting the locks either side of it rebuilt at the same time. This will save costs, time and disruption.”

For further information please visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/merrywalks.