Councillors have given the green light to the location for a new foot and cycle bridge for St Neots.

The decision comes following a consultation in the summer and feedback from local residents, businesses and organisations. The county council’s economy and environment committee agreed the recommendation of ‘option two’ which links Regatta Meadow to Priory Lane, at a meeting held last week.

The new foot and cycle bridge will be located to the north of the town bridge offering a safer, traffic-free crossing of the River Great Ouse. It will create a direct link from Crosshall Road to the Priory Centre and main shopping area. On the west side it will form a safe, convenient link to Crosshall School and Eaton Ford through the park and on the east side, the bridge will give good access to both Priory Park and Priory Junior school as well as Longsands College, the railway station and local leisure facilities.

Cambridgeshire County Council’s chairman of the economy and environment committee, councillor Ian Bates said: “I’m very pleased and this is a good result for St Neots. After a full consultation with the community, the new foot and cycle bridge will reduce congestion and make it easier and safer for local residents to get around St Neots by bicycle and on foot. We are promoting healthier lifestyle options by encouraging walking and cycling, which will also reduce air pollution and help ease congestion.”

The £3.5-£4 million bridge should be completed by early 2021.