New bridge opens at Sankey Valley Country Park

The new bridge in Sankey Valley <i>(Image: St Helens Star)</i>
The new bridge in Sankey Valley (Image: St Helens Star)
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A NEW bridge at Sankey Valley Country Park has officially opened this month.

The Whint Bridge in Haydock replaces the previous structure, which was removed in November after being deemed unsafe, forcing a temporary closure of a well-used section of the popular walking and cycling route.

As previously reported by the St Helens Star, the closure meant a key link through the park was inaccessible for several months, with walkers and cyclists having to divert around the site while the council explored replacement options.

St Helens Council has now confirmed that the new bridge is open, restoring full access along the route and improving connectivity through the park.

The authority said the upgraded structure has been designed to make it easier for visitors to enjoy the area, which is widely used by residents for walking, cycling and accessing green space.

Wildflowers are also set to be sown along the embankment in the coming weeks, with the aim of adding colour, supporting pollinators and enhancing the local ecosystem.

A council spokesperson thanked residents for their patience during the works and said the reopening coincided with National Walking Month, encouraging people to make the most of the improved route.

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