In case you missed the news last week, works to create a safe pedestrian access serving the new bridge at Langbridge, Newchurch, have been completed ahead of schedule.
Despite the recent searing heat, the project was completed and the road re-opened last Friday — well ahead of the scheduled finish date of 5th August.
No unexpected hiccups on site
Island Roads said the project went particularly smoothly as there were no unexpected hiccups on site, staff had worked additional hours and residents had also been very supportive by observing the traffic management measures put in place to allow the work to be undertaken safely.
Faulds: Our on-site team did a really great job in the heatwave
Project manager, Stuart Faulds, said,
“Having an effective road closure in place really enabled our team to make good progress despite the heat.
“We’d really like to thank the community for their support and understanding during these works and also highlight the effort of our on-site team who did a really great job in the heatwave.
“We kept them hydrated and ensured they took breaks in shaded areas and it was a really great effort by everyone involved.”
Bridge commissioned by parish council
Newchurch Parish Council commissioned the bridge to bypass the main road, meaning walkers no longer need to navigate the narrow and busy stretch of road through the village.
However, before the crossing could be brought into use, further works were necessary to ‘connect’ the structure to the existing public footpath network and provide safe pedestrian access.
The Isle of Wight Council offered to undertake the work at no cost to the parish council to ensure the bridge could be opened before the start of the summer holidays.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
