A POPULAR wooden footbridge in Bibury which is wearing away will be replaced later this month.

Gloucestershire County Council will be taking out the timber footbridge over the River Coln and installing a new bridge made from a robust hard wood called Ekki.

The new bridge is expected to last for the next 40 years.

From noon on Tuesday, June 28, the existing footbridge will close and a diversion will be in place for pedestrians.

Main work will be carried out at night time to minimise disruption.

The B4425 will be closed to traffic from 8pm on June 28 so that a crane can lift out the existing bridge and lift in the new one overnight.

A signed diversion will direct traffic around, and the road will reopen at 6am on Wednesday, June 29.

Completion work will continue during the daytime on Wednesday and the new footbridge is expected to open by 4pm.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways, said: “It’ll be great to get the new footbridge in place.

"It’s well used by local people and visitors and it’s also a popular spot for wedding photos.

"I’ve heard that some brides have been getting their shoes stuck in the timber which has worn away, so I’m sure they will appreciate our improvements too.”

Cllr Shaun Parsons, vice chairman of Gloucestershire County Council and county councillor for Bibury, said: “I’m delighted that the replacement footbridge is being installed.

“It’s a very important crossing for residents and visitors alike, particularly in summer months. It will allow people to cross the river safely without having to share a narrow road bridge with vehicles.”

Follow @GlosRoads on Twitter to find out what is being worked on and search for #highways365 for the latest updates.

For enquires, call 08000 514514.