A NEW footbridge is being installed in Stroud to improve access and safety.

Gloucestershire County Council will be replacing the old concrete footbridge along the canal towpath near Ebley Mill with a new metal one.

The work is planned to begin on Monday 18 September and is expected to take around five days to complete.

The path will remain closed while the work is carried out.

The current narrow bridge is well used and temporary repairs have needed to be carried out to its deteriorating surface.

The new bridge will be 2m in width, compared to the current 1.2m.

Stroud News and Journal: A new footbridge is being installed in Stroud to improve access and safety. Image: Robert Minchin

There will also be a gentle slope each side suitable for wheelchair and pushchair use.

The new bridge will be lifted into place by a crane and will sit on top of the current structure.

Cainscross Parish Council is allowing the county council access to the location from Queen Elizabeth Playing Fields to carry out the work.

Cllr Dom Morris, cabinet member for highways, said: “I’m delighted we will be replacing the current narrow bridge with a new structure that is more suited to greater numbers of people using it.

"It’s become increasingly popular to use and has required some temporary repairs, so I’m sure the new bridge will be welcomed by residents.

“I would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by its closure while this work is being carried out.”

Local county councillor Cllr John Bloxsom said: “This bridge has been in a poor state and its replacement is welcome.

"It’s a safe link between Dudbridge and Ebley along the canal towpath.

"There is an existing ‘Pedestrians Have Priority’ sign and I trust that, even with a wider bridge, all users will be considerate of the safety of others and be prepared to give and take as necessary.”