A bridge too far

4:52pm Wednesday 6th August 2008

Comments (2)   Have your say »

CYCLISTS have to find an alternative route along Chippenham High Street as a footbridge and cycle path in Monkton Park is closed for repairs.

The narrow Monkton Park Island foot bridge is having its decking replaced to improve the walk way from the river island side of the park to Monkton Park.

Press officer from North Wiltshire District Council, Paul Lancaster said: "Not many pedestrians will be affected by the bridge closure, there is not a heavy footfall on that bridge. Most people use the wider bridge near the council offices.

"Cyclists are the main people who will be affected as they have to use alternative routes specifically the High Street.

"The diversion notices near the bridge ask cyclists to walk through town with their bikes as cycling is not permitted in town."

The closure is expected to last for two weeks and was closed on Monday when workmen from North Wiltshire District Council started improving the bridge.

People living in Monkton Park may also be affected by the footbridge closure.

Mum of two Sarah Clark lives in Chippenham and said: "Although I am not affected by the closure of the bridge as I don't use the bridge. I think there will be Monkton Park residents who use this route regularly though.

"They will have to cross over a bridge to where the Olympiad is and then cross back over the wide red bridge."

The handrails on either side of the bridge will also be replaced for people's safety.

Mrs Clark mother to Quinn, eight and Keir, five, added: "I wouldn't use the bridge at the moment as it is really narrow and my boys would probably try and climb over it.

"It is also not very well lit on an evening so most people use the wider red-brick bridge."

The district council decided to close the bridge for the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. They have apologised for any inconvenience the closure may cause.

The bridge should be reopened by August 18.