Long-awaited bridge project to start in Walsall
Construction work is set to commence on the long-awaited York's Bridge project in Pelsall.
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It follows the careful relocation of great crested newts, protected by law, which were living at the site.
Contractors McPhillips Ltd will construct a new bridge over the Wyrley and Essington Canal, realigning Norton Road.
The new bridge will accommodate two-way traffic and a pedestrian footpath, unlike the existing York’s Bridge which as a single track only can become congested.
The new road will run parallel to the historic York’s Bridge, with the anticipated completion date for the project being late 2025.
Paul Handley, contract manager for McPhillips Ltd, detailed the benefits of the new bridge.
He said: "The new bridge will carry two-way traffic, improving the flow of vehicles.
"It will be flat as opposed to the existing humped bridge, meaning improved visibility for motorists and cyclists, and include a two-metre-wide footway making life better and safer for pedestrians. There will also be improvements to street lighting, a new access for the nearby Fingerpost pub and local homes, and new parking bays for people using the nearby common land.”
Deputy leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Adrian Andrew, said: "It is good to see that this congestion pinch point is finally being fixed with this major infrastructure investment in Pelsall.
“It is recognised that York’s Bridge has been somewhat of a ‘marmite’ project, but as the project progresses, the improvements will become clearer to see. It was really important to the people of Pelsall that the old bridge be kept – and their views were listened to – but it simply wasn’t fit or safe for purpose and there was no other suitable engineering option other than building a new bridge.
“The current historic bridge will remain as part of Pelsall’s proud heritage, but the new bridge will improve congestion in the village, helping all road users.
“As with any major civil engineering project involving the highway, traffic management measures will be in place to protect both the travelling public and site workers. Every effort will be made to minimise any disruption and I would like to thank all residents in advance for their patience as the works commence."
