The footbridge was closed following a detailed structural inspection which identified significant deterioration affecting key load-bearing parts of the structure. The inspection found a number of structurally significant defects, including extensive corrosion and loss of structural material.

The closure means pedestrians and cyclists are currently using a shared route across the adjacent Burcott Road bridge, with temporary traffic management in place to manage the impact on road users.

Highways officers have been monitoring the temporary arrangements and listening to feedback from local residents and motorists. As a result, a number of changes are now being made.

The current temporary traffic-light system will be replaced with a one-way traffic system, which is planned to be introduced at the beginning of September.

New barriers will also be installed along the road bridge to provide additional protection for pedestrians and cyclists using the temporary route while the footbridge remains closed.

The changes are interim measures while the Council continues to work towards a permanent solution for the footbridge.

Herefordshire Council has submitted a bid to the Department for Transport’s Structures Fund to support the replacement of the footbridge. Alongside the funding application, the Council is carrying out detailed technical and feasibility work and working closely with Network Rail to assess the most appropriate long-term solution. The aim is to replace the ageing 1963 footbridge with a new, safe and compliant pedestrian and cycle crossing, restoring a dedicated and resilient link between College Road and Burcott Road.

Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, Councillor Philip Price said:

“We understand the frustration and concern the closure of the footbridge and the resulting traffic disruption is causing for residents, pedestrians and motorists, and I want to thank everyone for their continued patience while we work through this.

“We are taking action now to improve the temporary arrangements, including introducing a one-way traffic system and new barriers to provide additional protection for pedestrians and cyclists using the temporary route.

“At the same time, we are looking beyond these immediate measures. We are progressing the technical work needed to understand the options for the bridge and are developing a bid to the government to support its replacement.

“We remain committed to finding a long-term solution that restores a safe and reliable crossing for pedestrians and cyclists, and we will continue to keep the local community informed as this work progresses.”