Pupils affected by closure until December

Children who use the bridge to get to school have been affected by the closure for substantial repairs since the start of the autumn term.

Jon Perks, West Sussex County Council’s principal rights of way officer, said: “I appreciate that the continued closure is an inconvenience to many, and I regret this.”

Works should be programmed to begin on November 4, following verbal support from the Environment Agency, which has to give approval.

Mr Perks added: “As you will appreciate, being an exposed site and the season moving towards winter, then any timetable can be subject to change.

“However it is hoped works should be completed within six weeks, i.e. finishing on or about December 13.”

Advisory notices would be put up on the various local paths to keep users informed.

Work on the footbridge across the River Adur, north of Bramber, involves replacing the decking timbers and improving accessibility on the approaches.