A bridge diversion too far for pedestrians . . .
WALKERS and cyclists are being forced to make a long diversion while a footbridge is closed for repairs which could take up to nine months.
But some are ignoring the signs and crossing the unsafe structure anyway.
The Jackson’s Boat bridge which connects Chorlton to Sale was fenced off after Manchester council deemed it too dangerous to be used by the public.
But the nearest alternative crossings, at Chorlton Water Park or Stretford Ees, are more than a mile away adding 42 minutes to the journey for those walking.
Claire Stocks, who lives in Chorlton, often crosses the bridge on her daily walk. She said: “Jackson’s Boat bridge is a very old and much loved structure, used by hundreds of people every single day to walk or cycle around the area.
“I know council resources are tight, but we don’t feel the council is treating this as seriously as it would if it was a road, even though it has high use. The bridge has been deteriorating for some years and the issues that have now forced its closure – loose planks on the footway as we understand it – might have been avoided with some maintenance.”
Sam Tate, who describes himself as an active travel advocate, welcomed the work being carried out, but said the diversion – which is 10 minutes by bicycle – is not ‘fit for purpose’ given the length of time the repairs are expected to take.
He says the alternatives along the river paths are uneven and not accessible for wheelchair users.
Chorlton councillors say a permanent repair or bridge replacement is required.
They said a temporary bridge instalation is being looked at as an option – but it would cost in the region of £220,000.
A Manchester council spokesman said: “As the bridge is a listed structure, approvals are required before work can commence. Therefore it is difficult to give a definitive timescale at this early stage.”
The council has urged people to obey warning signs.