Members of the Chichester Stations Local Action Team (CHISLAT) were in attendance for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Whyke Lane and Stirling Road bridges. A cost of £1m was spent on doing the work, which has taken six months to complete.

"The Whyke Lane bridge produces a lot of fond memories for me. It has stood the test of time and it has considerable character and charm," said the mayor, David Siggs.

"It has been restored to its former glory and it brings me great pleasure to bring back an old friend.

"The aim of the bridge at Stirling road was to improve lighting on and around the bridge. I'm pleased to say the work does not stop here. Litter bins and lighting at the Grove Road bridge are being looked at."

Over the summer the Victorian footbridge at Whyke Lane, also known as 'Jacob's Ladder', was taken away to have its support columns strengthened and parapets extended. It was also resurfaced and painted, had new mesh screen installed and its footpath reopened.

In Stirling Road, Network Rail replaced the old structure with a brand-new modern bridge and contributed towards the installation of new security lighting.

The remainder of the cost is made up of funding from Chichester District Council (CDC), Chichester City Council (CCC) and West Sussex County Council (WSCC).

The bridge also has slopes so it is more accessible for disabled people and mums with pushchairs.

Stuart Jones, scheme project manager, of Network Rail, commented: "The success of this project is testament to a great working relationship and understanding with CDC residents' groups and police authorities. We were pleased by their combined support, level of involvement and the end result."

CHISLAT comprises representatives from Network Rail, CDC, Sussex Police, CCC, British Transport Police, Whyke Residents' Association, the Whyke Estate Community Association, Three Ways Residents' Association, and WSCC Streetlighting.



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