Bridge's 'patchwork' paving set for overhaul

Buy photos » Coun Richard Udall says the damaged paving on Worcester Bridge needs to be urgently replaced. Picture by Marcus Mingins 0613020MMR.

THE CRACKED footpaths on the city's famous Worcester Bridge are to be ripped up and replaced after a councillor raised concerns over their 'patchwork' appearance.

Work is set to begin in the next few months to completely repave both sides of the city's main river crossing after St John's city and county councillor Richard Udall called for action to be taken.

And it has emerged some of the damage to the footpaths was caused by the heavy machinery used by a county council contractor when it carried out work last year to replace the century-old lighting on the bridge's balustrade.

The council could not confirm to the Standard how much the overall revamp would cost, but Highways manager John Fraser revealed the contractor would be making a 'large contribution'.

The balance will be taken from the council's Worcester Bridge fund.

Mr Fraser added: "Obviously as this is one of Worcester's most important historic structures we are taking care to ensure that the repair works will be in accord with the rest of the bridge, and to this end specifications have been agreed with Worcester City Council conservation officers. We anticipate being able to commence work within the next few months. All existing damaged slabs have been removed and the areas made safe."

Coun Udall welcomed the decision to repave the bridge but said the repairs were 'overdue and urgent'.

"I'm pleased the work is going to happen but I just hope it is sooner rather than later," he said.

"They haven't given a date of when the work will start and clearly with the summer months approaching we want the bridge in spic and span condition for when the tourists start coming to the city and visiting the cricket club and Cripplegate Park."

"Many businesses have worked hard to make Worcester an attractive place to visit and shop but the condition of the bridge is letting us down. People are having to watch their step on uneven footpaths instead of enjoying the view of the Cathedral and the riverside."

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