A VITAL footbridge connecting two streets in Renfrewshire has reopened following three months of improvement work.
The £1.2m demolition and reconstructing of the Arkleston footbridge, which links Arkleston Drive and Gallowhill Road, in Paisley, was needed due to the age and condition of the old structure.
Following demolition and removal of the old bridge, work included creating new piled foundations and installation of the pre-fabricated structure - with the majority of the work being delivered while the railway was closed over weekends in January.
The completition of the project ends several months of disruption to passengers in Renfrewshire, who have also had to cope with the closure of the Johnstone train station car park and work in Bishopton.
READ MORE: Johnstone train station car park reopens ahead of schedule
Suzanne McKay, Network Rail’s scheme project manager for the bridge works said: “Construction of a new footbridge at Arkleston was essential to maintain access across the railway between the lineside communities.
“The age and condition of the old bridge structure meant that doing nothing was not an option as we had to maintain a safe access for the people who use the bridge and for the trains travelling below.
“While we appreciate this work was inconvenient for the local community in the short term, the new bridge will deliver a safe and modern walking route over the railway which will be of benefit for years to come.
READ MORE: Johnstone car park revamp spreads Renfrewshire rail misery
“We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation while we delivered this work.”
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