Wapping Wharf: Gaol Ferry Bridge to reopen

Gaol Ferry Bridge is one of the most-used pedestrian routes in Bristol

A footbridge that has been shut for more than a year has reopened.

Work costing £1.5m to restore Gaol Ferry Bridge over the River Avon in Bristol have now concluded.

The bridge connects Southville to Wapping Wharf and its closure had a big impact on businesses in the area.

The works were initially expected to last six to nine months, but the project was extended and its budget increased.

The bridge, built in 1935, opened on Friday afternoon, marking the end of disruption for commuters and businesses.

The bridge connects pedestrians and cyclists in South Bristol to the Wapping Wharf restaurant area

People visiting from the other side of the River Avon faced an extra 25 minute walk or 10 minute cycle to get there.

The project included replacing sections of the bridge's steel structure, rotten timbers, some of the stone work as well as repairs to the bridge's distinctive steel lattice work.

Final repairs, including a new deck being installed and paintwork completed, have now been finished.

Gaol Ferry Bridge has been closed since last summer

Bristol City Councillor Don Alexander thanked businesses for their patience.

"It's been a challenging project as the bridge was in an even worse condition than anticipated, with paper-thin steelwork in some places," he said.

A spokesperson for the Wapping Wharf traders said: "The bridge closure has had a big impact on our community of independent retailers, so we're over the moon that this key route will be back open soon.

"Thank you to everyone who's continued to make the journey and support us during this time - you're all wonderful."