Inglis Bridge in Monmouth is expected to reopen to pedestrians at the end of July following the completion of major refurbishment works.
Monmouthshire County Council and Monmouth Town Council have welcomed the progress, with the reopening marking an important milestone for the community after the bridge was closed in September 2024 because of safety concerns.
The historic pedestrian bridge is an important route for residents, schoolchildren and visitors, providing a key crossing over the River Monnow and reconnecting communities on either side of the river.
Although the refurbishment is almost complete, some final work still needs to be carried out, including the removal of the contractor’s work compound and associated site clearance. The bridge will need to close temporarily while these final tasks are completed to ensure the safety of both the public and workers.
To mark the project nearing completion, a celebration was held at the site involving pupils and staff from Osbaston Primary School. They were joined by Catherine Fookes MP, the Mayor of Monmouth Cllr Rob Barrell, Monmouthshire County Council Leader Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Housing and Tourism Cllr Sara Burch, and Ministry of Defence contractors who carried out the refurbishment.
Councillor Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader of Monmouthshire County Council, said: “We know how important Inglis Bridge is to the people of Monmouth and understand how much residents have missed this vital link. We are delighted that the bridge is now close to be reopened and would like to thank the Ministry of Defence, the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales, contractors and all partners who have worked together to reach this point.
“We also thank residents for their continued patience and understanding as the final elements of the project are completed.”
Cllr Rob Barrell, Mayor of Monmouth, said: “Monmouth Town Council is delighted to see the refurbishment of Inglis Bridge coming to an end. As the only remaining bridge of its kind still in public use, it is both a unique part of Monmouth’s heritage and a vital link for residents, schoolchildren and walkers. I would like to thank the MOD for providing the funding that made this project possible. I was also impressed by the care taken to protect the River Monnow during the works, with the bridge removed to a nearby location for refurbishment to avoid any risk of contamination.”
Owned by the Ministry of Defence, Inglis Bridge is a unique and historic structure that has served the local community for many years. Monmouthshire County Council has worked alongside the Ministry of Defence, the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales and other partners throughout the refurbishment project to support the safe reopening of the bridge.
