Milestone for Long Stratton bypass as bridge is put in place

The 42-metre long crossing was lifted into place - on top of specially constructed concrete abutments either side of the new road - using a 750-tonne crane.

Fabricated in Kent, the 90-tonne footbridge had to be delivered in two sections before it was welded together.

The bridge was delivered in two sections (Image: Drone Vision Norfolk)

Once complete and in use - by the summer - the footbridge will provide a walking and cycling route linking the existing public rights of way between Fairfield Close and Church Lane.

Grahame Bygrave, director of highways, transport and waste at Norfolk County Council said: "It’s fantastic to see the speed at which the new bypass is coming together and this is a really exciting step forward in its construction.

"The new road will reduce congestion in the town, benefitting local residents and our wider economy for years to come."

The new 2.4-mile bypass, due to open later this year, is being built by Octavius Infrastructure.

Jamie Harrison, the company's delivery director for highways, said: "I am pleased with the dedication of the team in achieving this important lift.

"It takes a high level of planning and collaboration between the factory and the site team to ensure a perfect fit.

"The project is currently progressing well in all areas and with the warmer weather approaching we remain confident of delivering everything on time."

The bypass will start at a new roundabout junction at Church Lane to the north and will re-join the existing A140 near Oakside Farm to the south.

The scheme is linked to plans for 1,800 new homes in fields on the edge of Long Stratton.

Almost 170 acres of that land was recently put up for sale.