NEW GARTH LANE FOOTBRIDGE IS IN TOWN

THE new Garth Lane footbridge connecting Fisherman’s Wharf and Frederick ward Way has been safely delivered to Grimsby.

A number of onlookers lined the streets to see the latest addition to the rejuvenation of the town. While some simply came to see what was going on, others wanted to see exactly what the new bridge would look like.

However, that will have to wait with the bridge set to be officially placed today. The bridge was transported by police escort from Scunthorpe, where it had been painted. On the journey, roads were kept closed and residents were advised to move any cars or vehicles out of the convoy’s way.

While onlookers were disappointed they wouldn’t see the bridge completed yesterday, it didn’t dampen their spirits about the prospects it has for Grimsby.

One member of the public had been waiting all morning to get a glimpse of the structure.

They said: “I’ve been here since 11am and can’t wait to see what it looks like.

“I’ll be pleased when they reopen it and get it all finished as well. I’m partially blind and my guide dog has been trained to go across the bridge so it’ll be good to be able to take her to see it as well.”

Residents who lived along the route were equally happy to see some development in Grimsby. One said: “I’ve always used the bridge and to see it getting a bit of a change is great. It’s lovely to see the town get improved and I’ll definitely be taking the grandchildren to see it when it’s open.”

However, some believed the new bridge would have a negative impact on the area.

“The bridge is great, but I just wish it wasn’t as wide. In my opinion, it’ll act as a meeting place for kids and drug users. It is nice to see us sprucing up the town though,” said another.

For some who have lived in the town near enough their whole life, it was good to see a change finally. One said: “I’ve lived here most my life and it’s about time something was done to make the place look more appealing.”

Another long-time resident of Grimsby added: “I think Grimsby is a great town. The best part is that the money spent on the bridge is something the people can enjoy as well. These sorts of schemes and ideas bring lots of benefits. I just hope this is the start of things to come.” A spokesman for North East Lincolnshire Council said: “The new bridge is the central part of a £3.5m make-over of the area, which is due to complete late next month.

“It is supported by £1.3m from the Humber Local Enterprise Partnership from the Local Growth Fund as part of the Government’s commitment to the Northern Powerhouse. Further support has come from The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, with funding released as a result of the Grimsby Town Deal.

“The decorative masts and hand railings are being transported separately. Once installed, the bridge will remain inaccessible for several weeks as detailed completion work is needed – the long-term pedestrian diversion will remain in place until then.”

As it was leaving town, the transporter became stuck after attempting to negotiate the tight right-hand turn at the junction between Corporation Road and Pyewipe Road