Bridge work delayed as contractors await crucial components

Work completing the new cycle and pedestrian bridge over the River Severn in Newtown has been delayed.

A Swiss manufacturer is yet to deliver critical components for the bridge's safety barriers.

The work will now continue into 2025.

A statement from Powys County Council said: "Since the Newtown Active Travel Bridge structure was lifted into place over the River Severn back in June, work has been ongoing to install the bridge deck, construct the connecting paths and complete the surrounding landscaping and outside gym area. 

"Despite some difficult challenges due to the location and complexity of the project, work has been progressing well."

It added: "However, disappointingly, the contractors are still waiting for some critical components that will form part of the vitally important safety barrier on each side of the bridge (parapets) to be manufactured, tested and delivered from Switzerland. 

"Currently it is estimated that this crucial last element of the bridge build will be installed in the New Year. Once this last part of the construction process has been completed, an opening date for the much-anticipated cycle and pedestrian bridge will be confirmed. Although this may be disappointing news to residents the safety of users is a priority."
 
Funded by Welsh Government with support from Transport for Wales, the bridge will create a safe active travel link between the communities, businesses and amenities on each side of the river, connecting the riverside path and communities on the west of the River Severn to Pool Road on the east.
 
Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, says, “This project will add to the growing network of active travel routes throughout the county and will make it easier for the people of Newtown to make short journeys such as to work, school or the local shops, by bike or on foot, rather than having to get in the car.
 
“We would also like to thank the local community for their co-operation throughout this project. We know they are as eager as us to see the bridge finished and opened to the public as soon as possible.”