WORKS to create safe pedestrian access serving the new bridge at Langbridge in Newchurch have been completed ahead of schedule.

The project was completed, and the road re-opened today (Friday, July 22), well ahead of the scheduled finish date of August 5.

Island Roads said the project went smoothly as there were no unexpected hiccups on site.

Staff worked additional hours, and residents were supportive by observing the traffic management measures put in the place to allow the work to be undertaken safely.

Isle of Wight County Press: Staff worked additional hours through the heatwave.Staff worked additional hours through the heatwave.

Stuart Faulds, project manager, said: “Having an effective road closure in place really enabled our team to make good progress despite the heat.

“We’d really like to thank the community for their support and understanding during these works and also highlight the effort of our on-site team, who did a really great job in the heatwave.”

The footbridge was created using thousands of reprocessed plastic bottles.

Newchurch Parish Council commissioned the bridge to bypass the main road, meaning walkers no longer need to navigate the narrow and busy stretch of road through the village.

Isle of Wight County Press: The new footbridge at Langbridge in Newchurch has been completed.The new footbridge at Langbridge in Newchurch has been completed.