Works to begin within weeks for long-awaited replacement of aging Havant footbridge
The new bridge will replace the aging existing structure
Initial works will begin within weeks for the construction of the long-awaited new £12.8million footbridge near Havant Railway Station.
Hampshire County Council has confirmed that preparatory work to get the site ready for the construction of a new footbridge in Havant is due to begin in early September - including the removal of trees.
This is to allow a safe area to be created during the construction which will see the new footbridge created from the southern entrance of the station in North Street, over the railway line and linking to Elmleigh Road.
It will replace the existing 79-year-old structure which is deteriorating, structurally obsolete, and too narrow for modern accessibility needs.
A statement from the council said: “The project has been carefully planned to minimise disruption wherever possible. However, because of the site's limited space, its proximity to the railway, and the need to remove and install large steel structures, several temporary measures will be required to ensure work can be carried out safely and to allow full construction to begin.
“This includes the removal of a small number of trees in the immediate local area; whilst North Street, Elmleigh and The Star car parks will also be closed. We would like to thank everyone in advance for their patience and cooperation as we carry out these works.
“The start date for the main construction phase will be confirmed shortly once plans have been finalised. When construction begins, the existing footbridge will close and temporary pedestrian diversions via nearby roads will be in place for the duration of the works.
“Once completed, the new footbridge will provide significant improvements for residents and visitors. The bridge will be twice as wide as the existing structure and feature gentler ramps, making it more accessible for cyclists, wheelchair and mobility scooter users, and people travelling with prams or pushchairs.”
Main construction work is expected to begin in autumn 2026 and could take up to 12 months to complete.
New Footbridge:
- Main span over the railway lines length: 26 metres and 4.0metres wide;
- Ramps Width: 3.5 metres (wide enough to allow cycling)
- Ramps: Gentler slope with resting areas
- Fits within existing land owned by Network Rail and Havant Borough Council
- It replaces the existing bridge built in 1947 which has reached the end of its structural life and currently relies on temporary safety supports
Residents are encouraged to follow updates on Hampshire County Council's scheme webpages or sign up for the project's e-bulletin to receive regular updates as work progresses at https://www.hants.gov.uk/transport/transportschemes/havant-footbridge-replacement