Key part reached in project to create new bridge in Worcestershire
The structure of Hampton Bridge has now been successfully installed at the site in Evesham
Work on a multi-million project to create a new bridge in a Worcestershire town has taken another step forward as it moves closer to its expected completion date next year.
The latest update has confirmed the structure of Hampton Bridge has been successfully lifted into place over the River Avon in Evesham.
Three bridge sections measuring a total length of over 90 metres arrived at the location last month, along with two leg sections, and have been assembled to create the frame.
Weighing approximately 100 tonnes, a specialist crane with a 1550 tonne capacity was brought in to lift it, while a temporary closure of the river was also introduced so the lift could be carried out safely.
The total budget cost, which is £17.3 million according to the county council's website, has been funded through a combination of developer contributions, Active Travel England funding and the county council's own fund, and was approved by the county council's cabinet in 2024.
On the progress which has been made, Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member for highways and transport, councillor Tom Wells, said: "Seeing the bridge structure lifted into place is a fantastic achievement and an exciting moment for the Hampton Bridge project.
"Residents and visitors will now be able to see the bridge taking shape across the river, providing a real sense of the progress in delivering this piece of infrastructure for Evesham."
The scheme is part of the council's wider investment in sustainable transport across the town, with the aim behind it to encourage more people to walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys.
The construction work is scheduled to finish in summer 2027, with the focus now being on the other parts to it, such as the linked footways to Pershore Road and the raised causeway to the leisure centre before it can be opened.