WORK starts on Monday, January 16, to replace a foot and cycle bridge over the River Dane.

The bridge, near London Road, is expected to open by early March and will provide an improved traffic-free route for walkers and cyclists to access the town centre and Vickersway Park.

The project has been funded by a ‘Links to Schools’ grant from the charity Sustrans and developed in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC).

Clr Lynn Riley, CWAC’s executive member for community and environment, said: “The route will provide everyone with better walking and cycling access and particularly for students at Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College and to the existing National Cycle Network Route 5.

“While the work is taking place the footpath will be closed for public safety reasons to allow access for construction traffic, particularly during the removal of the old bridge when access will be required for a large crane.

“Maps placed at the access points will show an advisory diversion route for pedestrians and cyclists.”

Peter Foster, Sustrans director in the north west, said: “We know that people are willing to walk and cycle more for their daily journeys if only they have the right spaces and encouragement to do so.

“This bridge will provide that space, giving people more choice about how they travel for local trips around Northwich, and allowing them more opportunities to be physically active, with all the health benefits that brings.”