Wheelchair friendly footbridge nearing completion in Leicestershire

A bridge in Leicestershire that's hindered the crossing of wheelchairs, bikes and buggies due to steps at one end, is now nearing the completion of a rebuild.

The Wreake End Footbridge in Syston has been redesigned after a television appeal, which lead to the People's Lottery Fund paying for the extensive update – including the ramp local residents campaigned for.

The new bridge coincides with a revamp of the nearby area, which includes resurfacing paths, improving parking facilities and updating signposts.

The work is part of a national effort to complete unfinished projects, including the Watermead Park area in Leicestershire.

Mick Clowes, Chairman of the Melton and Oakham Waterways Society, said: "This new bridge will accelerate plans to open up the river for the use of all, and exploit the underused leisure possibilities the the Wreake Valley holds."