Work on footbridge to begin soon
District councillor, David Holtby, said work on Hungerford's new footbridge may take four years to complete
WORK on Hungerford's new footbridge may take four years to complete, according to district councillor David Holtby (Con, Hungerford).
The footbridge, to run alongside the existing Bridge Street structure, was finally given the go-ahead by West Berkshire planners at the beginning of this month, 70 years after it was first mooted.
Speaking at the annual town meeting last Thursday, Mr Holtby said that construction on the £400,000 project would begin in April and added: “It's been 70 years coming and not everyone is in favour of it.
“Other solutions were considered but after a series of public meetings the idea of having an elevated footbridge seemed to be the preferred option. I won't predict exactly when it will be completed but it will be reasonably quick. Much of it will be pre-fabricated off site.”
He added: “I really hope that those who aren't too fond of the design and those that will be inconvenienced by the work will grow to love it. Ultimately, the whole town should benefit.
“Work must be completed within four years but, if I have anything to do with it, it will be completed in double quick time.”
The project was revived because of safety fears. Heavy lorries thundering past meant that pedestrians using the current, narrow walkway were intimidated and mothers with pushchairs were at risk.
Turley Associates drew up images of details such as the bridge's supporting piers and the hand rail, as well as the general shape, which will follow the arch of the original bridge so that boats can pass.
Speaking for dissenters, town councillor Denise Gaines branded the project “the wrong bridge in the wrong place” and warned: “It will change the structure completely and there are a number of reasons I object to it: its effect on a listed building in a conservation area, loss of visual amenity, design and appearance.”
However, when approval was finally granted in March by West Berkshire planners, district councillor Paul Hewer (Con, Hungerford) said: "At the end of the day, it's an accumulation of four years of work....it's a great day for Hungerford and it makes it all worth it.”
At the time, Mr Holtby said: “I am delighted that Hungerford is to have a safe pedestrian crossing over the canal.
“It is long overdue, but, when built, will help improve the accessibility and prosperity of the town.”
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.
