Views sought on replacing demolished bridge

The bridge was demolished after repairs were found to be too expensive

A council has asked for public opinions on how to replace a footbridge in a popular town centre spot.

The Goodland Gardens footbridge in Taunton was removed this year by Somerset Council after an 18 month-closure as it was found to be structurally unsound and then deemed "not viable for repair".

Taunton Town Council is considering whether to replace it and if so, how, and has begun a public online consultation running until 15 November.

A feasibility study it commissioned earlier this year predicted it would cost between £300,000 and £500,000, representing 5% to 8% of its budget.

The previous Goodland Gardens footbridge was removed earlier this year

A structural survey commissioned by Somerset Council found the now removed bridge would have cost more to repair than it would to replace.

It said it could not afford the cost.

Councillor Richard Wilkins said previously: "The wellbeing of the public has to come first and unfortunately this bridge is no longer safe.

"With the pressures on our finances we currently do not have the funding to replace it."

This has left the town council considering different options.

It said it recognised "the importance of the structure to many of our residents and are actively considering whether to replace it.

"We have commissioned the surveys and studies necessary to understand the cost of this replacement."

The feasibility study it commissioned suggested a new bridge could be made from materials such as steel, timber, a mix of both or a special type of polymer.