New Keynsham park bridge opens at last

A NEW footbridge restoring the pedestrian route around Keynsham Memorial Park has opened to the public.

The bridge has been installed by Bath & North East Somerset Council and is part of a range of improvements planned for the park over the next two years.

The bridge structure is made of a polymer plastic resin that is resilient to damp conditions and designed to be long-lasting.

The balustrade and handrail are made of polished steel and the side panels are steel with a protective rust patina. The council says this reduce future maintenance costs.

The footways approaching the bridge have been newly tarmacked and the existing bandstand ramp cleaned, with new planting around the bridge also carried out.

The original footbridge was closed in October 2019 after its timber beams deteriorated and became unsafe.

The further improvements to the park will include addressing flooding under Echo Bridge, as well as exploring the possibility of an indoor or covered café space and better play facilities during 2023 and 2024.

Pictured, left to right, on the new bridge are Councillor Andy Wait; Shaun Moore, B&NES Council chair’s escort; Councillor Sarah Moore, B&NES Council chair; Councillor Alex Beaumont; and Councillor Hal MacFie.