WORK began yesterday repairing a bridge used daily by thousands of students, on the day the new university term began.

Kingsgate Bridge, a concrete crossing of the River Wear in Durham, is to remain closed for six-and-a-half hours daily - except weekends - for the coming fortnight.

It is to allow much-needed refurbishment of the award-winning concrete bridge, between New Elvet and the Durham Cathedral and castle peninsula.

The 40-year-old bridge links the students' union complex, Dunelm House, with many of the colleges in North and South Bailey.

Durham County Council said it needs to close daily to allow its engineers to refurbish the decking and its approaches, repairing and re-laying concrete slabs which have remained in place during the bridge's four decades' lifespan.

A county council spokesman said by starting work at 9.30am each day and finishing at 4pm it might help students reach their first lectures and return from their studies at the end of the day.

He said the Ove Arup-designed bridge is "a vital thoroughfare" for pedestrians in general, rather than just students.

"By ensuring it is kept in good condition, we hope to ensure it remains that way for many years to come."

But Durham Students' Union president Nick Pickles said the timing, at the start of term, was unfortunate.

"It would have helped if they had been able to do it before the start of term or at the end.

"It is an inconvenience, as its used by thousands of students every day, but I'm sure people will learn to live with it for the next two weeks."

The work is expected to be completed by October 21.