A KEY section of the Sandown to Newport cycle track is to be upgraded by Island Roads in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council next month.

The bridge across the Eastern Yar, near Alverstone, will be replaced by a new structure that is both longer and wider, with higher parapets, making it more suitable for horse riders as well as cyclists and pedestrians.

The bridge was due to be refurbished by Island Roads under the highways PFI contract as a like for like replacement, but the council has provided additional funding for improvements which should increase accessibility.

Ian Hodson, Island Roads’ structures manager, said: “We’ve been really pleased to work with the IW Council and other local stakeholders to come up with a design that makes the new bridge suitable not just for pedestrians and cyclists but for the equestrian community as well.

“The structure is located in an area prone to flooding, so the new bridge will also be installed slightly higher. This should make the bridge more usable all year round, because it is less likely to be affected by high waters.”

Work is scheduled to begin on November 2 and last approximately three weeks, during which the footpath will be closed between Alverstone Road and Longwood Lane, subject to weather conditions.

During the closure, a diversion will be in place which will be advertised on site, using both printed plans and QR codes from which users will be able to see the diversion on Google Maps. Information will also be available on Island Roads’ website at https://islandroads.com/alverstone-cycle-track-bridge/