Timber footbridge to be replaced with steel

A timber bridge leading to a nature reserve in Shrewsbury is to be replaced with a steel-framed structure.

Work to replace the footbridge from Laundry Lane to Rea Book nature reserve will take place from Monday and is expected to be finished by Friday.

Shropshire Council said the route would close while the work was carried out because a concrete base needs to be made.

Councillor James Owen said the timber bridge was "on its last legs" and the council had wanted to replace it for a long time.

"We will reopen the route as soon as can, and as soon as it's safe," he said.

He said the result would be a "better, wider and long-lasting structure on this vital footpath".

The footbridge is used daily by a large number of residents, local councillor Rosemary Dartnall said.

She said there would be some inconvenience, but the work would be carried out quickly with minimal disruption.

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