A Darlington bridge has reopened following a development to restore the structure and guarantee its use for decades.
Polam Lane bridge, located near South Park in Darlington, reopened on Friday (October 13) following work to replace the decking.
The grade two listed bridge, situated over the River Skerne, was built in about 1891 as a link between Victoria Embankment and Polam Lane.
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A DBC spokesperson said the bridge has now been made "safer" and "better" following the redevelopment.
They said the timber deck has been replaced with sustainable European oak, and anti-slip strips, which will guarantee the bridge can be used for at least the next 30 years.
Darlington MP Peter Gibson praised the works as "good news" for the area.
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The bridge was originally closed under the provisions of Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984 on September 18.
An alternative route was signed between Polam Lane, Grange Road, Victoria Road, Victoria Embankment and vice versa
Residents reacted to the news with delight and praised the work done to preserve the bridge.
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One pleased resident said: "Excellent news, well done to the council for preserving this bridge."
Another added: "Walk over it every week and I think it looks great."
While another happy resident said: "About time it was done, it’s loads better. Well done."
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