Posted on Monday 26th January 2026
The temporary Burston footbridge will be installed as soon as ground conditions allow.
Plans to install a temporary footbridge in Burston are ready to move forward as soon as weather conditions allow, with engineers fully prepared to begin work at the earliest safe opportunity.
The temporary bridge is the quickest way to reopen the popular Sandon and Burston Public Footpath 36, whilst a new permanent bridge is being completed off-site.
Staffordshire County Council had aimed to install the temporary bridge earlier in the autumn, but the legally required approval from the Environment Agency was not received until December. Since then, continued wet weather has left the ground waterlogged and unstable, meaning heavy machinery cannot safely access the site.
This specialist equipment is essential to transport bridge sections, prepare the ground, and install secure foundations to ensure the bridge is safe for public use.
Once installed, the temporary bridge will allow the footpath to reopen while the permanent replacement bridge is completed off-site. When ground conditions are suitable for the permanent installation, the temporary bridge will then be used as a safe working platform to support construction before it is removed.
Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
“I completely understand the frustration people are feeling and we are keen to get the path open and usable as soon as possible. The team is fully ready to install the temporary bridge. We’re just waiting for the ground to be safe and stable enough to bring the machinery on site.
“We now have the approvals in place and are monitoring conditions closely. As soon as it’s safe to do so, we will move ahead without delay.
“Our top priority is public safety. We need to ensure the installation is carried out at the right time, in the right conditions, so the solution is safe for residents now and stands the test of time. We are committed to reopening this route as quickly as possible, but it must be done in a way that protects people in the short term and delivers a robust, long‑term improvement for the community.”
In the meantime, engineers will continue to closely monitor the site. Footpath 36 between the River Trent and Burston Lane will remain closed to protect public safety.