Motorists have been warned of several road closures throughout August while a Durham footbridge is demolished. 

Leazes Footbridge was closed last year on health and safety grounds after multiple surveys determined it could no longer bear the weight of pedestrians and cyclists, Durham County Council said. 

Further investigations by the local authority found the footbridge is beyond economical repair and does not meet modern accessibility standards.

But campaigners argue the council’s judgement is wrong and the bridge should be saved. A ‘Saves Leazes Footbridge’ petition was signed by more than 700 people. 

A signalised pedestrian crossing at the existing traffic lights on Gilesgate Roundabout will be created in its place. However, concerns have also been raised about the safety of pedestrians crossing the busy city centre road. 

“The new crossing will provide a safe and accessible route across the A690 for everyone and is just a short distance away from the footbridge,” the council said. 

The following footpath and overnight road closures will take place:

• 24-hour footpath closures will be in place for one week from Monday, August 5 on both sides of the A690 near the footbridge. Only one footpath will be closed at a time and diversions will be via the opposite footway.

• The A690/Leazes Road will be closed in both directions between Gilesgate Roundabout and Ravensworth Terrace overnight for five nights from August 11. The closure will be in place from 7pm to 5am and diversions will be in place.

• Daytime footpath closures will also be in place from August 11 on both sides of the A690. 

• The footpath on the southbound side of the A690 will be closed 24 hours a day for two weeks from August 19, with diversions via the opposite footpath.

• 24-hour footpath closures will be in place on both sides of the A690 near the footbridge for two weeks from September 2.