Finishing touches as new Telford footbridge nears opening

Work on the electrics, landscaping and lift installation are currently being done, as well as the completion of the central platform between the railway and the main footbridge.

After the new £10 million bridge was lifted into place early Sunday morning, the old footbridge will remain in place until the new one opens, which is set to be in November.

Once the new footbridge has been opened, the original bridge will be demolished.

After the opening of the A442 Eastern Primary yesterday morning, overnight road closures will be put in place later this year on the A442 and Rampart Way while the work on the old bridge is carried out.

One job yet to be completed is finding a name for the new bridge, which has currently been dubbed as The Whale, due to its silver/grey coloured, elongated shape.

School pupils across the borough have been challenged by the council to come up with a suitable name which will be unveiled at the official opening.

The winner will also receive an iPad, sponsored by the project contractors, Balfour Beatty.

Following the lift of the 240 tonne bridge, Balfour Beatty project manager, James Corrigan, said: “I am delighted to have successfully completed the second of two bridge lifts in Telford, while ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding road and rail network.

“This crossing brings together essential parts of the local community and allows the public much needed upgraded infrastructure.”

Councillor Lee Carter, cabinet member for finance, commercial services and economic development, said: “The new bridge now provides easy and legal access to all as well as a fitting welcome to our growing town.”