Tewkesbury secures funding to design a bridge aimed at easing traffic and enhancing development, despite concerns about potential congestion from new housing.
Tewkesbury: The local council has secured funding to design a bridge over the railway line. This bridge, often called the “bridge to nowhere,” aims to ease traffic and support new housing developments.
The council received £89,500 from Homes England. This money will help finalize the bridge’s design and create a plan for managing the area around it.
Next, the North Ashchurch Consortium will review the design. They will ensure it meets all technical requirements before submitting a planning application.
Councillors voted to accept the grant and an additional £15,000 for a stewardship strategy. This strategy will help manage the wider development project.
Some council members worry the bridge could worsen traffic. It will connect two large housing developments, potentially increasing congestion in the area.
Council leader Richard Stanley noted that the bridge was initially proposed without considering its broader impact. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan.
Concerns were raised about traffic flow. Councillor Mike Sztymiak expressed doubts about the bridge’s effectiveness, fearing it would lead to more traffic jams.
Despite the concerns, Stanley believes the bridge is essential for future housing developments. He stated that government funding could help improve local infrastructure.
Conservative councillor David Gray expressed support for the grant, hoping for an attractive bridge design. He believes it will help Tewkesbury grow sustainably.
The bridge design will be part of a larger planning application for the area. This application is expected to be submitted later this year.
The council is also exploring land near Hardwick Bank Road for future development. They aim to connect this area to the existing road network.
