BUILDING work on Worcester’s latest river crossing is going according to plan and it should be finished by the end of the month.

The main structure of the new Diglis Bridge, including the main steel work and deck sections of the footway, are up and builders are now starting work on the finishing touches such as the hand rails and lighting.

Councillor Derek Prodger, the county council’s cabinet member for transport, said: “It’s a very exciting project for the county and the city and I have been watching the construction every day.

“It’s so beneficial to walk and cycle in the city and I think the bridge will play a vital part in the city’s infrastructure.”

As previously reported in your Worcester News, the bridge, which is costing more than £2 million to build, will link Navigation Road in Diglis with Lower Wick, connecting the cycling and walking paths on either side of the river.

The structure – a joint scheme between the county council and sustainable transport charity Sustrans – will also help to improve connections between St John’s and Cherry Orchard, Red Hill and St Peter’s.

Henry Harbord, area manager for Sustrans, said: “It shows that Worcester is truly looking at a much more sustainable future.

“People will be able to easily get around town for those everyday journeys without always having to resort to using their car.”

Building work on the new cycle and footbridge started in November last year.

A Worcestershire County Council spokesman said: “All the main steel work sections are up and the ramp leading up to the bridge is up. Each of the deck sections that make up the footway slot together and are all in place.

“We’re adding stairs, hand rails and lighting and the little bits take a little more time to finish off. We’re hoping it will be finished by the end of the month, it’s all on track and going to plan.”

The bridge will be officially opened on Tuesday, July 20.