Footbridge could reopen after almost 25 years
APAISLEY footbridge which has been closed off to the public for almost a quarter of a century could soon be reopened. The bridge over the White Cart river – which links Abercorn Street with Carlile Place – was shut off way back in 1996 after structural issues were identified.
Plans have now been revealed to bring the walkway back into use, with councillors set to decide on whether to award a contract for strengthening works at tomorrow’s meeting of the finance, resources and customer services board.
Officers have recommended elected members award the contract to W I & A Gilbert Ltd, which has been deemed as the most “economically advantageous” tender.
It is hoped the reopening of the bridge will encourage more active travel in the town centre, as it will increase walking and cycling opportunities.
A Renfrewshire Council spokesman said: “Our finance board will consider approval of a contract to strengthen a footbridge over the White Cart in Paisley, linking Abercorn St to Carlile Place.
“The bridge has been closed to pedestrians since 1996 following identification of structural issues at that time and the proposed works would enable it to reopen and further enhance cycling and walking opportunities in an area close to new housing developments, businesses and West College Scotland’s Paisley campus.”
The £ 363,683 cost of the works would be fully funded by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport ( SPT) and Sustrans Ltd.
SPT would provide up to £ 280,000, with the funding required to be spent by the end of March next year.
Sustrans would meanwhile provide up to £ 190,000, which must be spent by the end of next June.
If the contract gets the green light, it is anticipated works would begin at the start of next month with completion expected by the end of March.
The board – convened by Councillor John Shaw – will meet at 2pm tomorrow via video conference.