Footbridge plan is back
A plan to build a footbridge across the River Severn at Bewdley is back on the agenda following fears over safety on the 200-year-old road into town.
Residents are to be consulted about cutting risks for pedestrians by providing an alternative to the town's historic crossing and councillors plan a special meeting.
It will decide how best to move the scheme forward.
Calls for a footbridge have been made because of concerns about narrow footpaths on the road bridge.
A previous bid failed in March 2006 after a councillor said it was "pie in the sky". Worcestershire County Council would have to be approached for funding.
The former leader of Wyre Forest District Council, Councillor Stephen Clee, said during previous discussions that this was unlikely to be considered for many years as the latest county transport plan was agreed for schemes up to 2011.
Town councillors want to press ahead and take another look. Councillor Liz Davies said: "It was agreed that there was a huge need for a footbridge and we all decided the next step was to have an informal meeting to discuss the way forward along with ideas for funding.
"When lorries go across they go very near the pavement and it is very lucky if their wing mirror don't hit pedestrians.
"The older people worry about their safety on the bridge, as well as mothers as they can't walk side-by-side with their toddlers.
"People with mobility scooters are always complaining that they don't feel safe. Many a time I have had to stop because something big is coming along and when all the children are walking home from school that way. It is a worry."
A possible site is in the area of Beales Corner to Lax Lane. Residents are being asked to show support by returning a voting slip sent out in the church magazine.
