New footbridge in Hungerford is now open
The new structure has been installed alongside the existing road bridge to make it easier and safer for pedestrians, especially those using buggies or wheelchairs, to get across.
West Berkshire's Council’s executive member for highways and transport, David Betts (Con, Purley-on-Thames), said: "I am delighted that the new bridge is now open.
“It has been designed in accordance with the wishes of local people and improves accessibility while complementing the existing landscape and bridge with sensitive design."
He added: “This is the realisation of a great deal of work which will leave a legacy for Hungerford not only as a physical structure but as something the whole community has played a real part."
Plans for the new bridge, in Bridge Street, were approved in March.
The new £400,000 footbridge, first suggested 70 years ago, was installed because the previous structure was too narrow for pedestrians, especially mothers with pushchairs.
The original bridge, which is Grade II listed, was built in 1798, around the same time that the Kennet and Avon Canal was being constructed.
The bridge will be officially opened later in the year linked to the Queen's diamond jubilee celebrations.
Hungerford resident, Ken Rayner, took the below picture of the bridge on the day it was first opened (Friday, March 30).