Bridge sub-contractor enters administration

An artist's impression of Kepax Bridge in Worcester

One of the firms working on Worcester's Kepax Bridge has entered administration, Worcestershire County Council says.

Sub-contractors SH Structures Ltd confirmed it was having financial problems earlier this month.

The structure, located near Gheluvelt Park, is designed to provide a new walking and cycling route over the River Severn that is due to open at the end of the year.

A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council, said SH Structures Ltd's difficulties would not delay the project or increase costs.

The council spokesperson stated: "We can confirm that we still expect to open the bridge by the end of the year and that Worcestershire County Council."

The principal contractor, Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd, is said to now be working to appoint a new sub-contractor to work on the project going forward.

Jon Fraser, from the county council highways team, said it was a "huge shock" to hear of SH Structures Ltd's problems.

"We have used them many, many times before, they worked with us on Diglis Bridge in Worcestershire," he said.

"But they have already manufactured the sections of the bridge that are in place and they have also manufactured the sections of the bridge that need to be put in place.

"What we need to do now is get a new sub-contractor appointed just on the basis to put those sections of bridge deck into position."