New footbridge over motorway officially opened

The new footbridge at Bagshot Heath replaces one that was demolished in 2023

A new footbridge has been officially opened over the M3 in Surrey.

The bridge, for walkers and cyclists, at Bagshot Heath spans the motorway between junction three at Lightwater and junction four at Frimley.

A previous bridge at the same site was demolished in 2023 after engineers found issues with its "ability to withstand collisions and the risk posed from high vehicles", National Highways said.

Nick Axford, the organisation's project manager, said: "We are committed to looking beyond road journeys and supporting more active forms of travel, healthier lifestyles and better local connections."

He added: "We know how important this bridge is to the community.

"While demolishing the previous structure caused inconvenience, the new bridge is safer, wider, stronger and more suitable for cyclists – and we hope it will be enjoyed by everyone."

The new bridge – at 63m (206ft) long, 4m (13.1ft) wide and weighing nearly 100 tonnes – was lifted into place in July after months of construction.

Mesh and anti-climb measures were fitted as a safety measure.

Plans to install the bridge in April had to be postponed because concrete in one of its abutments had not hardened properly.

A ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Wednesday with Surrey Heath MP Dr Al Pinkerton and Louise Ashbery, the Mayor of Surrey Heath.

Ms Ashbery said: "I know that local residents and groups have been looking forward to this walkway being reinstated as it provides such a useful link for walkers and cyclists.

"I am sure it will bring a lot of joy for many years to come."

Stephen Deacon and Pauline Hurford will use the new bridge to access a nearby park

Stephen Deacon and Pauline Hurford live on the Connaught Estate on the Bagshot side of the motorway and regularly access Lightwater Country Park on the other side.

Mr Deacon said: "We've been waiting about 18 months for this, quite a while. So we're really pleased.

"It gives us more freedom. We really like walking round here."

Ms Hurford said: "It has been very difficult. We have had to drive just to get to the park.

"We're now able to enjoy the park properly again by walking."

Evie Tweddell walks in the park most days with her family.

She said: "The new bridge looks beautiful.

"And connecting the two towns again will be really good for the people who go across the motorway."