Construction works start at York’s Bridge, Pelsall

Monday, 5 August 2024 18:24

Following work undertaken to carefully relocate great crested newts, which are protected by law, construction work is now due to start in earnest on the long-awaited York’s Bridge project. McPhillips Ltd was awarded the contract to construct a new bridge over the Wyrley and Essington Canal adjacent to the existing York’s Bridge, along with localised realignment of Norton Road. Once complete this will provide a safer route for all road users, with a two-way traffic bridge and dedicated footway.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, Associate Leader of Walsall Council said:

“It is good to see that this congestion pinch point is finally being fixed with this major infrastructure investment in Pelsall. The current historic bridge will remain as part of Pelsall’s proud heritage but the new bridge will improve congestion in the village helping all road users.

“It was really important to the people of Pelsall that the old bridge be kept – and their views were listened to - but it simply wasn’t fit or safe for purpose and there was no other suitable engineering option other than building a new bridge.”

McPhillips’ contract manager Paul Handley said:

“The new bridge will carry two-way traffic, improving the flow of vehicles. It will be flat as opposed to the existing humped bridge, meaning improved visibility for motorists and cyclists, and include a two metre-wide footway making life better and safer for pedestrians.

“There will also be improvements to street lighting, a new access for the nearby Fingerpost pub and local homes and new parking bays for people using the nearby common land.”

The Council will work closely with McPhillips to ensure that local residents and the travelling public are updated as works progress, with anticipated completion of the project in late 2025.

Councillor Andrew added:

“It is recognised that York’s Bridge has been somewhat of a ‘marmite’ project, but as the project progresses, the improvements will become clearer to see.

“As with any major civil engineering project involving the highway, traffic management measures will be in place to protect both the travelling public and site workers. Every effort will be made to minimise any disruption and I would like to thank all residents in advance for their patience as the works commence.”