Step forward for Castle Cornet Bridge replacement

Experts say the existing Castle Cornet Bridge is corroded and will eventually collapse

A plan to replace the Castle Cornet Bridge is gaining traction after ports bosses started their search for a firm to do the work.

Guernsey Ports said it was inviting expressions of interest from maritime bridge specialist.

It said the chosen firm would use its "expertise" in this "highly specialised area" to design and build a new bridge.

A lack of action would mean the closure of the bridge "due to risk of collapse", it added.

Its replacement is expected to cost up to £7m, it said.

The States' Trading Supervisory Board's policy letter proposes replacing the structure to ensure "safe pedestrian and vehicular access" to the castle, lighthouse and breakwater "for more than 50 years".

It said about £131,500 had so far been spent on developing options for the bridge.

Ports said it hoped to find a preferred supplier by the end of March 2024, with the project subject to final government approval.

Follow BBC Guernsey on Twitter and Facebook. Send your story ideas to [e-mail].