Bracknell

Two giant cranes will be used to lift a modern steel arch footbridge into position over Bracknell's Mill Road in a two day precision operation.

A section of Bracknell Mill Lane between Wildridings and South Hill Road will be closed on Saturday, May 3, and Sunday, May 4, so the 40 metre-long arch can be installed safely. There will be an off peak road closure on Wednesday, May 7, so the remaining sections of the bridge deck can be installed. A diversion will be in place to minimise disruption to motorists.

Placing and fixing the separate elements of the arch - which will rise 14 metres above the road - and bridge decks will be a difficult operation which requires skilled labour and patience. Members of the public will be kept a safe distance away.

The new Bracknell bridge will replace the existing narrow concrete footbridge that has come to the end of its life and will also provide a new cycle link between Great Hollands and Easthampstead. The road will then be closed when the old bridge is demolished on Saturday, May 17, and Sunday, May 18.

The existing bridge is an important link particularly for children going to school, so is being replaced with a wider structure with space for both pedestrian and cyclists.

Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and Transportation, said: "The new foot and cycle bridge over Mill Lane will be a striking addition to the Bracknell landscape.

"We have worked to minimise the disruption for both drivers and bridge-users, who I hope will like this interesting, new bridge.”

For the latest information on the bridge, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/env-mill-lane-footbridge or call 01344 352000.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council