Burston footbridge remains on track for August completion

Work to replace the damaged footbridge on a popular walking route in Burston remains on schedule, with the new crossing expected to be completed in August 2026.

Staffordshire County Council engineers have excavated the site and built foundations for the bridge on Sandon and Burston Public Footpath 36.

The previous structure was damaged by a fallen tree, forcing the closure of the route between the River Trent and Burston Lane.

The new foundations now need time and dry conditions to cure.

From Monday 27 July, crews will begin creating a temporary access road so that the heavy equipment needed to install the bridge can be moved safely onto the site.

The bridge components will then be transported to Burston and assembled.

Completion remains scheduled for August, although the council has said progress will depend on favourable weather conditions.

Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said

“It’s really encouraging to see work on the new Burston footbridge making such strong progress in just the first couple of weeks.

“This new bridge won’t be the same as the last one. We’re creating a stronger, more accessible crossing that will serve users of the route for many years to come, making it easier for everyone to enjoy this popular walk.

“I want to thank the local community for their continued patience as we work to reopen the route as soon as possible.”

The footpath will remain closed throughout the construction work.

The county council said additional measures have been needed to secure the area after people attempted to enter the works site to get a closer look at the bridge.

People are being reminded not to move barriers or enter the closed section of the footpath.

Hayley Coles added

“While I appreciate that people want to see how the new bridge is progressing along, please remember that this is a construction site and very dangerous.

Help our crews focus on the job at hand by keeping a safe distance from the work site and staying behind barriers.”