A popular Worcester footbridge has been resurfaced and an adjoining footpath is next, according to a city councillor.

The bridge over Laugherne Brook has been repaired and work to resurface Meco Alley will take place next month.

Steps leading up to the footbridge will also be removed, making it more accessible to wheelchair users and people using pushchairs and bicycles.

Councillor Richard Udall said he has been campaigning for the work to be done for a number of years.

“I was initially told it could not be done, I refused to accept that and persisted,” he said. “I’m delighted that the work has finally been agreed and a date set for it to happen.

“I was first contacted by a Dines Green resident who used a mobility scooter. She could not use this popular route because of the steps, later other people with prams, wheelchairs and bicycles all complained about the steps.

“They are a real barrier to pedestrians, cyclists and other users, their existence is outdated and no longer acceptable. Their removal will free a lot of people, open up the footpath and encourage pedestrians and cycling, it’s a major victory.”

Meco Alley, named after the nearby Meco Works, is one of the main pedestrian routes connecting Dines Green to the rest of St John’s.

“It’s a very popular footpath and used by hundreds of people every day, especially school children,” said Councillor Udall.

Worcester News:

“The footpath is to be resurfaced and the steps will be removed. We have also installed three new litter bins and improved the bridge over Laugherne Brook.

“Later in the spring, an offshoot of the footpath, which runs between Windsor Avenue Allotments and St John’s Cemetery, will also be resurfaced for the first time.

“It’s currently an uneven muddy path - after rain you need wellington boots. All that will change, it will link Meco Alley to the new Wilks Close development and will create a new pedestrian route into St John’s.

“All this is good for our active travel campaign, helping people to get out of their cars and to cycle and walk.”

Work to resurface the footpath and remove the steps is due to take place between January 31 and February 11.