Work on Telford's new railway footbridge gets under way

The complex government-funded development spans a live railway line and two dual carriageways – Rampart Way and the A442.

Areas near the bridge, where people are working, will be separated by cones for their protection but, on both roads, one lane in each direction will remain open.

Telford & Wrekin Council says a 40mph limit on short sections in both directions of Rampart Way and the A442 will help keep traffic flowing for the duration of the project from Monday.

Site facilities for Balfour Beatty staff will be in place by early November, ready for foundations works to begin.

Pedestrian access will be via temporary ramps while footpaths will remain open with diversions in place as needed.

The new glass-sided bridge will be cheaper to maintain with a path to the town centre that won’t be as steep as the current one.

Wheelchair users, cyclists or people with pushchairs and heavy luggage will also have access to the new bridge via new lifts.

Telford & Wrekin Council's transport chief, Councillor Angela McClements said: “The current bridge is reaching the end of its lifespan.

“Anyone who has hauled a suitcase up the steps, pushed a stroller with a child in or cycled up the steep ramps will agree with this. "The old bridge fails to meet many standards people now expect.

“We need a more welcoming gateway to the town and replacing the bridge is good news for our residents and visitors.

“The project has been carefully planned, starting after the dualling work on Rampart Way has finished, to keep traffic disruption to a minimum.

"However being so close to two very busy roads we must cone two short sections off and reduce the speed limit.

“We hope drivers will bear with us while we build this new link and improve access for everyone to Telford town centre.”

The project is funded by a government grant that has been awarded to the council and this can be spent only on this project.