Repair work has commenced on a footbridge that connects Durham Road in Langdon and Mandeville Way in Laindon Hills, Basildon.

The bridge, which carries pedestrians over the rail line between London and Fenchurch Street, was closed in October 2020 after inspections carried out by Network Rail showed it was deteriorating quickly and no longer safe for people to use. Both the age of the structure and the local geology has caused the bridge to move and fracture, making it unsafe for pedestrians.

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Emergency remedial work was completed shortly after the bridge was closed but permanent repairs are required in order to safely re-open the bridge.

The work is expected to take eight weeks and the bridge will reopen in the summer. The rail line will not be affected by the work.

Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, said: "This bridge has been closed for much longer than anyone wanted, or expected, for which we’re sorry. The condition of the bridge means complex repairs are required and these types of repairs take time to plan and complete.

"I am pleased to be able to say that the work has started today and this will enable us to reopen the bridge in the summer. I'd like to thank residents for their patience while we carry out these repairs."